University of Galway Theses (PhD Theses)

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Development of a shoreline change modelling system for Brandon Bay, Ireland using tide, wave and morphology models
(University Of Galway, 2025-03-19) Egon, Andi; Nash, Stephen; Farrell, Eugene; Iglesias, Gregorio
Numerical models can play an important role in better understanding the coastal erosion process and the relative impacts of its drivers such as winds, waves and tides. The primary aim of this research was to develop a modelling system for simulation of shoreline change in Brandon Bay, located in Co. Kerry on the western coast of Ireland, and use the model to gain a deeper understanding of current circulation and wave climate in the bay and their impact on shoreline change. A secondary aim was to use the modelling system to study the potential impacts of future climate change on shoreline erosion/acretion. Hydrodynamic, spectral wave, and shoreline change models were developed using the well-known software packages Delft3D, SWAN and XBeach, respectively, and were validated against field measurements. The models revealed a strong wind influence in Brandon Bay, especially in its eastern half. This persists all year but is strongest during winter and is present even in the bottom layers. The model results showed that mean current speeds when wind was included in the model were 3-5 times higher than those when wind was omitted. The wave climate was characterised using a 7-year modelled wave dataset. Results showed significant seasonal variability in significant wave heights; winter means in the east of the bay ranged from 2-3 m compared to 0.5-1.0 m for summer. Five different storm wave classification approaches were used to identify storm wave characteristics from the modelled wave data. A fixed threshold approach, was found to be more effective for short-term periods (1-3 years), while a statistical-based classification using exceedance values was more suitable for longer periods (3+ years). The choice of approach had a significant effect on the number of identified storm waves which ranged from 36 to 136 for the most appropriate approaches. Coastline change was examined using cross-sectional profile datasets from surveys carried out between October 2021 and November 2022, paired with numerical model simulations. Erosion occurs mostly in the winter months, followed by natural recovery in the milder spring and summer seasons. The future climate model simulation showed that more intense storms in the future with increased wave height could cause increased coastal erosion and could the occurrence of more frequent storm waves.
Advance in planning and treatment of patients with complex coronary artery disease: From invasive coronary angiography to coronary computed tomography angiography and machine learning
(University of Galway, 2025-03-18) Kageyama, Shigetaka; Onuma, Yoshinobu; Serruys, Patrick W.
[No abstract available]
Developing a digital health intervention for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
(University of Galway, 2025-03-18) Gibson, Irene; McEvoy, John William; Byrne, Molly; Murphy, Andrew; Health Research Board
Background: Secondary prevention is an important strategy to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). While guidelines recommend that secondary prevention should start as early as possible following a CVD diagnosis, referral to and uptake of secondary prevention programmes such as cardiac rehabilitation (CR) remains persistently poor. Digital health interventions (DHIs) including mobile apps have the potential to offer innovative, scalable approaches that improve the provision of timely secondary prevention. However, despite these potential benefits, adoption of DHIs into routine clinical practice has been slow. Furthermore, although secondary prevention DHIs such as CR have been compared to traditional in-person programmes, there has been little research focusing on the development of these DHIs, with limited use of co-design to approaches. There is also a lack of understanding of the systems required to support implementation, scalability, and sustainability. Aim: The overall aim of this research was to advance knowledge on the development of DHIs for the secondary prevention of CVD. In line with this aim, the research included in this thesis sought to: (i) examine current practice, by assessing the outcomes of a multicomponent digital CR intervention delivered in Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic, (ii) to identify factors influencing implementation of this digital CR programme from the perspective of health workers, and (iii) to use the resulting evidence to inform the development of a DHI known as “INTERCEPT” for the secondary prevention of CVD that could be provided to patients with coronary heart disease(CHD) at the time of their diagnosis and prior to their discharge from hospital. Methods: Using a mixed methods approach, this research was underpinned by the UK Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions. In the first study, a single-centre observational study was conducted to examine the outcomes (lifestyle, risk factor, therapeutic goals and quality of life) of a digital CR programme called “Croí MySláinte”. To help identify the contextual factors influencing implementation of secondary prevention DHIs, a qualitative analysis of health worker perspectives on this programme was conducted in Study 2. In Study 3, a person-based, co-design approach to the development of INTERCEPT, inclusive of usability testing was adopted. Findings: The observational study of Croí MySláinte (Study 1) showed that multicomponent digital CR can be successfully implemented to help patients achieve guideline recommended lifestyle, medical and therapeutic targets that are comparable to in-person CR programmes. Insights from the qualitative analysis of health worker perspectives on digital CR (Study 2) revealed that factors influencing implementation of DHIs relate to: intervention characteristics and technical considerations; individuals (workforce and patients); the healthcare ecosystem; and the broader extrinsic ecosystem within which they operate. Then, in Study 3, the needs of the end user, key design principles, and the desired app features and content were established through the use of co-design. Through an iterative process, including usability testing, this facilitated the development of a theory informed intervention, which comprised of a mobile Health app linked to a health care professional portal and wearable technology. Conclusion: Increasing emphasis is being placed on prioritising the development of DHIs for the secondary prevention of CVD. This research contributes to the evidence base for the development of such interventions by examining real world evidence including clinical outcomes and contextual factors influencing implementation and integrating these findings with the use of co-design to inform the development of INTERCEPT. By adopting a mixed method, theory based, approach to the development of the INTERCEPT DHI, this programme of research has paved the way for next step feasibility testing and definitive evaluation of effectiveness and future replication.
Peptide and protein modification for biological and therapeutic applications
(University of Galway, 2025-03-13) Leen, Roisin; Myers, Eddie. L.; Hoogewijs, Kurt
For the first two years of my Ph.D. programme, I conducted research under the supervision of Dr. Kurt Hoogewijs. This research is outlined in Chapter 1. Following Dr. Kurt Hoogewijs departure from the university, I remained at the University of Galway, where I joined the research group of Dr. Eddie Myers. This research is outlined in Chapter 2. Chapter 1 Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell as they produce 90% of the energy the body needs to sustain life and support organ function. Mitochondrial diseases are a group of disorders caused by mutations in the nuclear or mitochondrial genes, affecting ~ 1 in 4,000 people. At present, there is no effective treatment for these progressive and life-threatening diseases. One of the most common mitochondrial diseases is MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes), which is caused by a point mutation in the gene encoding mitochondrial tRNALeu(UUR)3. Previous studies have shown that the 16-mer LARS2β32_33 peptide derived from mitochondrial leucyl-tRNA synthetase exerts rescuing activity on the mutated mt-tRNA-Leu. In this study, we investigate the structure-affinity relationship of these peptides and identify the truncated form of the LARS2β32_33 peptide that binds to tRNALeu(UUR) by using microscale thermophoresis. Truncation of several N-terminal amino acid residues of LARS2β32_33 provides peptides with retained binding affinity to the tRNA. Alanine scans have highlighted the particular importance of hydrophobic residuesfor binding affinity to the tRNALeu(UUR) . Interestingly, the LARS2 β32_33 peptide also has binding affinity for non-cognate mt-tRNA Lys, Val, Ala and Ala(mouse). This data provides critical insight for the development of peptidomimetic therapeutics based on LARS2β32_33 peptides as potential widespread therapeutics for mitochondrial diseases. Chapter 2 Post-translational modifications (PTMs) have a profound effect on protein structure and function, influencing many cellular processes and disease progression. Lysine residues are known to undergo a particularly diverse range of PTMs, but the function of some of these modifications remains unclear. Accessing pure, well-defined, site-specifically modified proteins is vital for understanding the mechanisms in which they are involved. Owing to the superior nucleophilicity of the cysteine thiolate and the rarity of cysteine in the human proteome (ca. 2%), thisresidue is often exploited forsite-specific installation of PTM mimics2 . γ-Thialysine, the simplest cysteine-derived lysine analogue, exhibits comparable structural and chemical properties, justifying its use as a representative lysine mimic. Herein, we have developed a fast and easily accessible method that enables the transformation of cysteine residues into γ-thialysine derivatives by using cyclic sulfamidates. These reagents demonstrate excellent selectivity and high conversion rates and can be employed under mild reaction conditions. The transformation involves ring-opening of the cyclic sulfamidate to form intermediate sulfamic acid derivatives, which, depending on the nature of the substituent on the nitrogen atom, undergo buffermediated desulfonation to the desired γ-thialysine analogues. We demonstrate the installation of various γ-thialysine PTMs into small molecule, peptide and protein model systems. This work highlights cyclic sulfamidates as privileged reagentsforselective alkylation of cysteine residues and shows promise for subsequent applications in therapeutic or biological research.
Resisting extractivism in the Sperrins: Countermapping and making relatives for post-extractive futures
(University of Galway, 2025-03-13) Cirefice, V'cenza; Reilly, Kathy; Greene, Mary; Irish Research Council
As the extractive frontier expands out into peripheralised parts of Europe, branded as critical for the green transition, communities are resisting. Research on resistance to this extractivism has ballooned in recent years. I build on feminist and decolonial scholarship which has conceptually widened extractivism from a physical removal of resources to be understood as a logic, worldview, a way of relating in the world rooted in coloniality and about relations of power. This thesis contributes to these debates around grassroots resistance to extractivism by asking in what ways are communities resisting extractive logics in the Sperrin Mountains? Here in County Tyrone, North of Ireland communities have been resisting gold mining for almost ten years. There remains a large research gap in how communities resist extractivism in Ireland and particularly the North of Ireland. I use a mix of activist, creative and participatory methodologies to challenge academic extractivism. I detail how extractive logics are manifesting in the Sperrins as colonial constructions of place, embodied and emotional slow violence and through social engineering. I argue that in challenging these extractive logics, the resistance movement is “Making Relatives” and transforming relations with the human and more-than-human world. This is characterised in three ways, firstly through building relations within the campaign based on care and commoning, secondly, through relations with the more-than-human and thirdly by building relations with other translocal frontline communities. This is significant for understanding ways to challenge oppressive systems that underlie extractivism and work towards post-extractive futures. I contribute to debates around the ontological question of extractivism and how we build alternative life-worlds.
Exploring complementarity: A study of the Colombian integrated system for peace between normative development and participants' perspectives
(University of Galway, 2025-03-12) Canossi, Beatrice; Ferrara, Anita; Irish Research Council; NUIG School of Law Doctoral Fellowship
This research provides an in-depth, short-term assessment of the normative and practical development of the ongoing Colombian Integrated System for Peace (SIP). The SIP is the first domestic-led experiment in which TJ measures are designed from the outset as part of a cohesive process. This includes careful timing, sequencing, and institutional coordination. This study investigates the relationship between SIP's judicial and extra-judicial measures by gathering insights from professionals involved in the system, as well as from the perpetrators who have interacted with it. Using qualitative methods and extensive fieldwork, this research explores how intentional collaboration between judicial and extra-judicial bodies can improve the pursuit of truth and justice. The findings of this study highlight three key factors that influence the advancement or hindrance of complementarity among the bodies of SIP: the importance of timing, sequencing, and synchronicity in TJ measures when establishing a regime based on judicial conditional incentives; the significance of building on past experiences while considering the necessary learning curve for TJ measures to operate effectively and the pivotal role played by the ‘human component’ in implementing transitional measures.
CALM: Foundations for causality-aware language models for causal question-answering
(University of Galway, 2025-03-11) Dalal, Dhairya; Buitelaar, Paul; Research Ireland
Causality is a crucial aspect of human rationality, and causal reasoning is a critical element in the development of our mental models of reality. Theories of causality drive scientific inquiry and pervade all dimensions of our daily lives, from the minutiae of deciding what to wear based on weather predictions to medical diagnoses for experienced ailments. Recent advances in language models and AI technologies have demonstrated remarkable performance across a wide range of reasoning and QA tasks, resulting in promises of human-level general intelligence. However, the causal reasoning capabilities of such models remain underexplored, as prior research has been disparate and limited to narrow investigations of causal question-answering (causal QA) tasks. In this thesis, we aim to unify causal QA research, measure the baseline causal reasoning capabilities of language models, and propose foundational resources for the development of Causality-Aware Language Models (CALM) which are effective across diverse causal QA tasks. Inspired by cognitive theories and philosophical accounts of reasoning, we posit a unified definition of causal QA aligned with human causality. Specifically, we introduce CALM-Bench, a multi-task benchmark that consists of diverse causal QA tasks, ranging from causal abduction to effect quantification, and conduct extensive transfer learning experiments. We then introduce CALM-Schema, a semantic schema for the organization of causal knowledge as causal systems, and CALM-KB, the first synthetically generated knowledge base consisting of approximately 5.4K causal systems. CALM-KB is extensively validated in the knowledge injection and RAG settings, and we further detail the benefits and limitations of causal knowledge across common causal reasoning categories. Finally, we investigate the causal explanation capabilities of LLMs and propose IBE-Eval, an interpretable framework for the automatic evaluation of LLM-generated causal explanations. Our research lays the groundwork for future studies on language model causal reasoning and introduces foundational resources for the advancement of CALM models.
Advancement of a Novel Self-Centring Concentrically Braced Frame (SC-CBF) structural steel system for seismically active zones
(University of Galway, 2025-03-11) Alwahsh, Hatim; Goggins, Jamie; Salawdeh, Suhaib; Jiang, Yadong
The self-centring concentrically braced frame (SC-CBF) system developed at University of Galway offers several advantages over traditional concentrically braced frames (CBFs). In this SC-CBF system, post-tensioning elements are used along the beams to create a rocking joint behaviour, which helps absorb seismic energy and reduce the overall seismic demand on the structure. However, a key feature is that this system enables the structure to return to its original position after a significant earthquake. Therefore, residual deformations that compromise the integrity of traditional CBFs can be eliminated. In this thesis, the feasibility of using the SC-CBF system in seismic regions is evaluated through experimental testing and numerical analysis. Additionally, guidelines and design procedures for the SC-CBF systems are developed. A series of laboratory experiments including material tests and shake table tests were conducted to investigate the behaviour of the novel SC-CBF system. A one-storey SC-CBF structure was designed, manufactured and seismically tested on a shake table. Test results have demonstrated that the SC-CBF system performs well under realistic earthquake conditions, achieving a peak drift ratio of 2.51% with negligible residual drift (below 0.06%). This indicates strong self-centring behaviour, allowing the structure to recover most of its deformation after seismic events. Steel samples were cut from the specimens and material testing was performed to characterise the material properties of the steel. Coupon tests consisted of monotonic tensile loading, low-cycle, and extremely low-cycle fatigue loading. These results were used to develop a numerical model in OpenSees. By validating the numerical results with testing data, the model was proven to accurately predict the behaviour of the SC-CBF under seismic loads. Both experimental and numerical analyses demonstrated that the SC-CBF returns to its initial vertical position after large earthquakes, while dissipating energy through braces and, hence, keeping non-dissipative structural elements safe. Furthermore, the design guidelines of SC-CBF buildings, suitable for both Force-Based Design (FBD) and Direct Displacement-Based Design (DDBD) methods, are proposed. Case studies were performed to compare the efficiencies of the structures designed using the two methods. This series of research work helps ensure that the SC-CBF system can be effectively adopted by the industry, leading to overall improved seismic performance and greater resilience in CBF steel structures, fostering the widespread adoption of this innovative structural solution.
Protein – Calixarene frameworks via supramolecular synthons: A modular approach
(University of Galway, 2025-03-07) Mockler, Niamh; Crowley, Peter B.; Irish Research Council
Anionic, water-soluble calixarenes act as protein receptors and mediators of assembly, towards protein crystal engineering. Reproducible structural units, known as supramolecular synthons, are identified across protein – calixarene crystal structures and applied to direct new frameworks. Controlled calixarene binding is applicable in disordered protein capture and molecular tectonics.
听·见·韵 Hearing Rhythm, Seeing Rhythm: How can traditional ‘rules of rhythm’ in Chinese aesthetics be applied across contemporary creative practices in acoustic-visual space.
(University of Galway, 2025-03-06) Liu, Ling; Philips, Áine; Wallis, Ruby
Throughout the history of China, from the early dynasties to contemporary times, in the traditional Chinese aesthetic system, aspects of the integration of poetry, painting and calligraphy have been grounded in varied but deeply connected ‘rules of rhythm’. These ‘rules of rhythm’ permeate in diverse yet identifiable and recognisable forms. The research in this project aims to both adopt and adapt these rhythmic rules or sonic patterns from traditional poetry and lyrics in an experimental form that reimagines a tradition of ‘lyric aesthetics’ in the context of the contemporary interplay between sound and imagery. In this sense, this investigation is at once one of ‘reclamation’ and extension. The fundamental ‘question’ of these experiments is whether it is possible to represent the sonic patterns themselves, that is, to present the rhythmic cadence of sound by visualising and ‘multisensoryising’ sound structures. The focus of the thesis is on the historical establishment of the methodological approach, which is then transformed/translated into possible combinations through the integration of sound and imagery. As a particular attribute of Chinese expression and a specific part of the fundamental structures of the ancient language that is still in use today, these ‘rules’ or forms are cultural traits that have endured through many centuries and challenges, and more importantly in this case, can be (re)iterated in dynamic, fluid, and revitalised contemporary artistic configurations that aim at seeing sound, writing sound, performing rhythm. At the same time, it explores the possibility of reclaiming pre-modern history and traditional culture through the contemporary expression of rhythmic rules, as well as the feasibility of using contemporary integrated sonic-visual or multimedia artistic expression as a ‘medium’ to reimagine contemporary Chinese artistic expression from a Chinese perspective.
Change and adaptation in the fiction of John Wyndham
(University of Galway, 2025-03-03) Sikora, Anna; Tilley, Elizabeth
This thesis examines the writings of the British author John Wyndham (1903–1969), whose body of work comprises fiction, including science fiction (SF), crime, horror and fantasy, as well as published and unpublished SF criticism. Wyndham’s career spanned almost half a century, during which he wrote 12 novels and over 70 stories, using nine different pseudonyms. The commercial success of Wyndham’s The Day of the Triffids (1951) prompted critics to firmly divide his career into two periods: the early fiction written predominantly for the emerging American SF pulp magazine market, and his more mature work geared towards the general British audience. The thesis challenges this demarcation, which rests on deliberately overlooking Wyndham’s early fiction, and instead, it argues for continuities in his work. Wyndham’s unwavering fascination with the concepts of change, including biological, evolutionary, environmental, scientific and social change, and adaption to that change, serves as a framing mechanism that enables the discussion of his early and more obscure fiction alongside his later works. Chapter 1 examines critical and archival material to illustrate how Wyndham’s journey as a writer mirrored the evolving nature of SF, and how, at the same time, the subject matter of his fiction remained fundamentally unchanged. Chapters 2 to 5 illustrate these points through analysis of his works. His fiction is grouped thematically, according to the main themes dominant in SF: science and technology (Chapter 2); apocalypse and dystopia (Chapter 3); aliens and space exploration (Chapter 4); and time travel (Chapter 5). Appendix 1 examines the artwork accompanying Wyndham’s publications throughout his career. It illuminates why his early fiction, due to its pulpish associations, was often mistakenly treated as a separate period in his career. Appendix 2 is a detailed and updated chronological bibliography, whose aim is to verify, correct and supplement the existing bibliographical information. Wyndham’s early fiction was published and serialised under different pseudonyms in a variety of magazines in both Europe and America. The aim of Appendix 2 is to further illustrate that this dispersion was the reason Wyndham’s early fiction went unnoticed by critics and became separated from his later career. The thesis contributes to the following fields: American and British SF studies, ecocriticism, feminist studies, and British and American pulp fiction magazine culture.
Educating the romantic child in the novels and poetry of Anne Brontë
(University of Galway, 2025-02-27) Glasscott, Ciara; O’Cinneide, Muireann; Tonra, Justin; Moore Institute, University of Galway
This PhD project is centred on Anne Brontë’s engagement with eighteenth- and nineteenth-century philosophical and aesthetic discourses relating to pedagogy and childhood in her novels and poetry. It comprises a written thesis alongside the production of a digital scholarly edition and accompanying website. Through a focus on Brontë’s interventions into discourses surrounding the Romantic child and their ideal education, this thesis illuminates Brontë’s vision of reshaping society through transforming approaches to the raising of children. I argue that this approach unites various key themes in her work, moving from questioning established modes of Romanticism in her poetry, to her critiques of pedagogical theories without parental support in Agnes Grey (1847), to her firm articulation for a new approach to education for both genders in The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (1848). This approach centres Brontë’s interrogation of key philosophical and political theorists and illuminates unexpected common ground between arrestingly realist fiction, lyric poetry and the affective potentiality of the figure of the Romantic child. In Chapter One, this thesis explores Brontë’s often-neglected poetry. I contend that an increasingly complex and critical approach to childhood emerges in her later poems which is tinged with a bittersweet longing for the comfort provided by the nostalgic Romantic aesthetics of innocence invoked in her earlier work. Throughout Chapter Two, the thesis positions Agnes Grey as performing a sustained critique of Enlightenment and Romantic models and their influences, including the work of Bentham, Locke and Rousseau. In Chapter Three, I investigate Brontë’s deployment of Romantic aesthetics relating to childhood amid the otherwise faithfully realist tone as a vehicle for legitimising the radical critique of marriage law in Tenant. However, I argue that both novels still retain a particular and notable preference for deploying Romantic imagery when it comes to childhood, innocence and the mother-child relationship, complicating Brontë’s critiques surrounding the practical and gendered limitations of Rousseau’s approach in Agnes Grey and Tenant. A substantive element of this PhD project is the production of a digital scholarly edition of a selection of her poems that relate to childhood. Through a manuscript-centred focus on Brontë’s work the edition reveals additional facets of Brontë’s intellectual positioning within her poetry, illuminating crucial vexed internal dynamics surrounding themes of motherhood, nostalgia and Romanticism, informing and enhancing the thesis work.
Exploring psychosocial vulnerability in informal carers of patients with chronic haematological malignancies
(University of Galway, 2025-02-27) Cormican, Orlaith; Dowling, Maura; Sezgin, Duygu
Introduction There are more than 1,900 cases of blood cancers diagnosed each year in Ireland, with this trend set to continue due to the ageing population. Blood cancers make up approximately 10% of all cancers and are the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Ireland. Tremendous progress has been made in the treatment of patients with a diagnosed haematological malignancy in the last number of years. Haematological malignancies that were once considered incurable are now being managed as chronic, incurable diseases due to the substantial changes in disease management strategies and available treatments. Little is known about carers’ experience in this cohort of cancer patients. This is most likely due to the substantial change in the disease trajectory and with patients living longer with a treatable disease that was once considered incurable. Informal carers play a major role in supporting patients through the uncertainty of an incurable disease often which is overlooked. The deterioration in caregiver wellbeing as a result of caregiving is now being recognised globally and recognising what contributes to vulnerability in the context of the psychosocial impact may offer insight into recognising carers at risk. The thesis aims to explore and describe psychosocial vulnerability in carers of patients with Chronic Haematological Malignancies (CHM). Methods A hybrid concept analysis (HCA) was undertaken to define the concept “psychosocial vulnerability” in carers of patients with a CHM. This involved three phases: • Part 1, theoretical phase: A scoping review and qualitative evidence synthesis (QES), • Part 2 fieldwork phase: one-to-one interviews with carers of individuals with a CHM (qualitative research) and • Part 3: an analytical phase involving parts 1 and 2. • Finally, a quantitative study was undertaken to operationalise the definition of the concept “psychosocial vulnerability” in caregivers of individuals with a CHM. Results The scoping review highlighted the immaturity of the concept of “psychosocial vulnerability.” No definition of psychosocial vulnerability was found in the literature. The qualitative evidence synthesis had three main themes: Unpredictable Disease Trajectory, Illness Manager and Loss, Loneliness and Isolation. The main findings are: The patient’s quality of life is a priority for carers in an uncertain disease trajectory. There is a reluctance to discuss end of life because the disease trajectory is uncertain. Carers become experts at managing and overseeing care, are multi-taskers, taking on protector, advocate roles, and desperately seek information on the diagnosis and treatment. Carers worry about financial loss, and experience change in their relationships with their loved ones, as well as experiencing loneliness and isolation. The qualitative interviews had two main themes: restructured living, and sustaining caring with six subthemes: shrinking world, constant carer, healthcare professional support, needing information – particularly in the early days, peer support and taking control. The main findings are: There is a significant life change for caregivers, which is often isolating and invisible. Healthcare professional and peer support are crucial to sustaining caring. The analytical process of the hybrid concept analysis defined psychosocial vulnerability as ‘the risk and susceptibility of psychological or social harm as a result of exposure to the experience of caring for an individual with an incurable blood cancer. It can be due to a range of factors, including socioeconomic status, social support, access to healthcare, life events and individual characteristics such as personality traits and coping styles”. It identified the UCLA Loneliness scale (UCLA scale), Brief Resilience Scale (BRS scale), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS scale) and Modified Caregiver Strain Index Scale (MCSI) as useful for operationalising the concept. The cross-sectional descriptive questionnaire was conducted to operationalise the concept of psychosocial vulnerability. It identified that younger carers experienced a greater impact on their lives. Demographic characteristics associated with psychosocial vulnerability were age, gender, socioeconomic status, health, and well-being. Conclusion The HCA is a helpful technique for defining and exploring immature concepts. The findings contribute to the field of concept analysis studies and the field of chronic haematological malignancies and carers’ needs. There is valuable input in that findings can inform policy and highlight the impact that caring for an individual with a chronic haematological malignancy has on carers. Further work can be developed in other areas of chronic disease with the concept of psychosocial vulnerability. A key finding is the need for more resources, particularly social support for carers. Furthermore, carers need to be involved in the patient trajectory and recognised for their immense value to the patient experience and care.
(In)access and distance: A survivor/victim-centred analysis of transitional justice in Liberia
(University of Galway, 2025-02-26) Rhude, Kelsey; Ferrara, Anita
Focusing on the case study of Liberia, the thesis examines the dynamics of access to transitional justice using a survivor/victim-centred analysis. This research is the first comprehensive qualitative assessment of transitional justice in Liberia in the aftermath of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s mandate. The thesis provides a groundbreaking analysis by tracking the implementation of the National Palava Hut Programme through direct observation, with emphasis on the perspectives of participants. The study is based on extensive qualitative data collected through fieldwork in Liberia, including interviews, focus group discussions, and empirical research on transitional justice and peacebuilding processes. Through thematic analysis of the interconnected themes of space and familiarity, the thesis uncovers three layers of distance—physical, conceptual, and vernacular—that hinder people's access to transitional justice. The study reveals that even when transitional justice mechanisms are based on familiar justice processes, still, they may generate accessibility barriers. The thesis also clarifies that access does not guarantee a survivor/victim-centred approach to transitional justice. Accordingly, the research suggests restructuring transitional justice beyond levels and mechanisms, emphasising spatial, relational, and vernacular factors to improve access. Liberia is currently at a critical juncture. As the country recommits to transitional justice, practitioners should embrace a hybrid approach in designing future programmes. The study highlights the importance of focusing on survivors/victims’ post-conflict needs and conceptualisations of justice based on accessible vernacular.
A crisis within a crisis: How gender and disability impact the opportunities available to women with disabilities in Cambodia and Rwanda
(University of Galway, 2025-02-25) Byrne, Jennifer; Scriver, Stacey; NUI Awards
The experiences of women with physical disabilities have long been overlooked in the fields of both gender and disability studies (Liasidou, 2013). Much of the literature which does exist to explore disability and gender is based in the Global North and tends to take a medical or clinical approach to disability. This thesis therefore takes a more participatory approach to gender and disability research, relying on the stories of women with disabilities themselves, through empirical evidence from two countries in the Global South. The aim of this thesis is to explore the relationship between gender and disability, and to understand how these factors of identity combine to limit the opportunities available to women with disabilities, especially in relation to education and employment. Utilising a mixed methods approach, which is rooted in participation and empowerment, and framed by critical disability studies and intersectional feminism, I consider the experiences of 36 women with physical disabilities, their advocates, communities, and support structures. These interviews highlight the discrimination faced by women with disabilities in their everyday lives, due to the social and institutional perceptions of both gender and disability in Cambodia and Rwanda. These are influenced by patriarchal norms and assumptions about the capabilities of women with disabilities, and tend to preclude them from education, employment, marriage, and personal relationships. In order to overcome these obstacles, women stressed the need for self-confidence and support from those around them. This thesis therefore argues for an increase in support for women with disabilities through both formal and informal channels.
Chemical diversity and biological activity assessment of Benthic Cyanobacteria from the west of Ireland
(University of Galway, 2025-02-25) O'Brien, Shauna; Thomas, Olivier P.; School of Chemistry, University of Galway
Toxins produced by cyanobacteria emerge as significant hazards to the well-being of humans, animals, and aquatic ecosystems. Human exposure to these toxins arises primarily through the consumption of contaminated water or through direct contact, particularly in instances of cyanobacterial bloom events. The escalation of harmful cyanobacterial blooms on a global scale is becoming a major concern, as our understanding of the toxin production and metabolomes associated with these newly emerging and widespread blooms remains limited. Cyanobacterial blooms in Ireland are no exception due to the occurrence of widespread lakes. On the other hand, the metabolome of these cyanobacteria represents an unexplored repository of bioactive metabolites with the potential to provide valuable applications. Consequently, the investigation of cyanobacterial accumulations in freshwater ecosystems in Ireland not only holds the potential to reveal new bioactive compounds but also offers an opportunity to confront the emerging threats posed by these microorganisms. This PhD thesis describes the first results of a deep chemical investigation of major benthic cyanobacterial accumulations from some freshwater lakes in the West of Ireland. Chapter two describes the sample collection and prioritisation protocol of samples achieved through a biological screening, chemical profiling and retrospective toxin analysis protocol. Chapter three describes the isolation and structure elucidation of the new Micropeptin LOF941, Micropeptin LOF925 and Micropeptin LOF953 from a Microcoleus autumnalis-dominated biofilm collected from Lough O’Flynn, Co. Roscommon, alongside their evaluation as antioxidative agents and proposition of chemical structures of minor micropeptin analogues using a tandem mass spectrometry/molecular networking workflow. Chapter four describes the isolation and structure elucidation of two new [7.7]paracyclophane derivatives containing an unusual α-L-rhamnose sugar moiety, and their evaluation as antimicrobial agents. Chapter five describes a series of new bisindole alkaloids, the Urlárins, isolated from cyanobacteria collected from Lough Urlár, Co. Mayo, and their activity as cytotoxic compounds. This first deep chemical investigation of some Irish freshwater cyanobacteria underscores the importance of ongoing assessments, encompassing both potential beneficial applications and considerations of toxicity.
Impact of B cell secreted factors on myelin in progressive multiple sclerosis
(University of Galway, 2025-02-24) Dabrowska, Malgorzata Natalia; FitzGerald, Una; McMahon, Jill
Ex vivo organotypic slice models present several advantages over conventional cell culture systems by enabling the investigation of multiple cell types within their native 3D architecture, while preserving intrinsic cell-cell interactions and signalling pathways. In approximately 40% of individuals with progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS), B cell niches, referred to as ectopic lymphoid follicles (ELF), are observed in cortical sulci and are associated with cortical demyelination. This PhD thesis focused on developing a novel hybrid human-rat ex vivo platform to assess the cytotoxicity of B cells from individuals with PMS, hypothesizing that co-culture with brain slices may induce PMS-like cortical demyelination. Coronal organotypic brain slice (OBS) cultures were optimized using both neonatal and adult rat brains. Initially, evaluation of the metabolic activity of slice cultures from neonatal rats (P10/11) was investigated. The data indicated that caudal slices (Bregma -1.10mm to -3.50mm) exhibited 29.6% higher metabolic activity than rostral slices (p<0.001, n=50). Furthermore, cortical slices without structural connections exhibited 38.5% lower metabolic activity than those with intact connections (p<0.001, n=26). Severing these connections resulted in a 25.5% reduction in metabolic activity (p<0.02, n=20), emphasizing the necessity of maintaining anatomical integrity and connectivity for ex vivo cortical studies. The caudal brain regions provided optimal metabolic activity and extended viability, making them ideal for mimicking cortical physiology under healthy and diseased conditions. Adult rat brain slices typically exhibit limited viability in ex vivo cultures (often not exceeding 7 days, so fetal bovine serum (FBS) concentrations (0-10%) in growth media were tested. Cortical slices cultured in 10% FBS demonstrated significantly higher metabolic activity (p<0.001, N=4) compared to those cultured with reduced FBS concentrations, prolonging viability to 21 days. Caudal slices (~Bregma -1.33mm) remained more metabolically active (p<0.05) than rostral slices. Since hybrid human-rat models, using LPC to induce demyelination, were being developed, culture conditions compatible with both neonatal rat OBS and human B cells had to be optimised. In the absence of FBS, slices treated with 0.5mg/ml LPC exhibited an 88% reduction in metabolic activity at T2 (p<0.001), and a 67% reduction at T4 (p<0.01) compared to untreated controls. The addition of 10% FBS improved metabolic activity, reducing cytotoxicity at T2 and T4, but tissue integrity was lost. The optimal FBS concentration for vi culturing both neonatal OBS and B cells was found to be 2%, which preserved tissue integrity and prevented cytotoxic effects. Coronal OBS cultures were then treated with B cell supernatant, from cultures of peripheral blood from PMS+ and PMS- individuals. Proteome Profiler Rat XL Cytokine Array analyses demonstrated that OBS cultures treated with PMS+ supernatant exhibited cytokine expression patterns consistent with clinical PMS, including upregulation of IL-1, IL-17, and IL-22. PMS+ samples also showed the highest cytotoxicity at T2 (p<0.001, N=5) and significantly reduced myelin thickness (quantified on Image J using anti-MOG staining) at T2 (p<0.05) and T4 (p<0.01), disappearing by day T7 (N=5, n= 360). These findings suggest that factors released by PMS+ B cells are cytotoxic to myelin, inducing cortical demyelination in the OBS model. Next, a series of pilot studies were carried out to further examine the potential of rodent models of MS. Firstly, a study of activated mouse B cell migration in the brain demonstrated that a cuprizone-induced inflammatory environment promotes B cell retention in brain sections, particularly when treated with chemokine ligand 13 (CXCL13), compared to LPC or untreated controls (~30.6% and ~57.4% cells less, respectively). This highlights the necessity of developing an ex vivo model of PMS-like pathology and reinforces the role of B cells in MS-associated cortical myelin toxicity. Injecting B cells into an inflamed brain milieu facilitates their retention despite active glymphatic and cerebrospinal fluid flow. Secondly, further understanding of an inflamed brain milieu was sought by experimenting with biomaterials that could potentially be used to model ELF-like structures. For that purpose, hydrogel (HG) formulations were tested to obtain the storage modulus most closely resembling the malignant human lymph node, as that of ELFs has not yet been documented, and a non-adherent cell line (THP1) was successfully embedded within the hydrogel's 3D structure, showing proof-of-concept. Thirdly, attempts were made to mimic ELFs by promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in meningeal cultures, using the macromolecular crowder (MMC) carrageenan (CG). Unfortunately, at higher concentrations, cells treated with CG exhibited significant cell death, and no acceleration of collagen deposition was observed. Finally, the established ex vivo model was used to test the effect on remyelination of a peptide previously shown to be immunomodulatory in vivo. Peptide FhHDM, and its truncated version, were tested on demyelinated cerebellar slices (0.5mg/ml LPC). Treatment with full-length FhHDM resulted in improved metabolic activity and reduced cytotoxicity, suggesting a vii protective effect on myelin. However, further tests and quantification of the myelin area are required to confirm the peptide’s myelin-rescuing potential. Overall, this model has been extensively optimised and tested and introduces a novel platform for using adult OBS cultures to study neurodegenerative diseases, including drug screening and cortical pathology analysis, particularly in conditions like MS.
Advancing payment channel networks for next generation monetary system infrastructures
(University of Galway, 2025-02-19) De Silva, Anupa Shyamlal; Thakur, Subhasis; Breslin, John; Science Foundation Ireland; VistaMilk; Insight Centre for Data Analytics
In the aftermath of the 2008 global economic downturn, the emergence of Bitcoin as a disruptive force in the financial sector posed a significant challenge to traditional centralised financial systems. Nonetheless, both conventional and decentralised financial systems harbour inherent limitations that necessitate attention in preparation for the future. The clash between centralised governing bodies and decentralised payment systems spurred the emergence of a new concept known as Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), envisioned as a prospective future standard. While the current focus has predominantly dwelled on the adverse repercussions of CBDC's digitisation on existing financial systems, the impact on individuals' financial autonomy and adaptability to evolving monetary requirements constitute a crucial focal point for designing a futuristic monetary framework. This thesis identifies payment channel networks (PCNs) as a potential candidate as an infrastructure for a next-generation monetary system and lays the groundwork for its development. We commence by identifying issues with the current monetary landscape and the future monetary requirements based on the influence of technological advancements in various domains. In addressing these challenges, PCN possesses inherent scalability and security, with areas that require refinement. The thesis proposes enhancements to PCNs in two directions: facilitating payment intermediaries and enhancing user experience, where we develop innovative methods to make intermediaries more profitable and subsidised while boosting user confidence and convenience. This involves creating novel fee mechanisms and node subsidisation to benefit intermediaries, as well as designing stablecoins and card payment systems to improve the end-user experience. The efficiency and security of these methods are theoretically and empirically demonstrated with extensive simulations. These strategies elevate the potential of PCNs to serve as a comprehensive monetary infrastructure, effectively mitigating existing shortcomings. We also manifest how PCNs align with future monetary requirements in various contexts, such as micropayments, machine-to-machine (M2M) payments, the Metaverse, and mass customisation, especially in application areas such as future supply chains. Finally, we conceptualise a PCN-based monetary system that is not only resilient and future-ready but also deeply people-centric in its design, providing cash-like functionality. With its robust and stable currency, this monetary system is designed to put the user at the forefront, aiming to advance the financial landscape and establish the foundation for a better future.
Against unreality: A literary ethics of attention to suffering with Simone Weil, Iris Murdoch, and Elsa Morante
(University of Galway, 2025-02-19) Dianetti, Michela; Bartoloni, Paolo; Irish Research Council
This thesis positions literature as a privileged space for attending to suffering, examining the moral value of attention as theorised by Simone Weil and expanded by Iris Murdoch. I explore the relationship between attention and literature, establishing what I define as a ‘literary ethics of attention’. From this, I develop a framework I term ‘mystical realism’, which proposes that literature can bear ‘attentive’ witness to suffering. A case study of Elsa Morante’s novel La Storia, viewed through the lens of Murdochian philosophy of literature, serves to illustrate this idea, as the text is rooted in Weil’s concept of attention to le malheur. Through this analysis, the thesis suggests that La Storia is an example of ‘mystical’ attention to the darkest and most invisible aspects of reality, and thus a literary endeavour to restore the integrity of the real.
'In the best interest of the child': Foster care in Ireland 1862-1991
(University of Galway, 2025-02-18) Canavan, Jamie; Buckley, Sarah-Anne; Irish Research Council
This thesis explores the history of foster care in Ireland, spanning from the Irish Poor Law to the social work landscape of the 1980s. It discusses how the welfare measures of the 19th century shaped legislation and policy for child welfare deep into the twentieth century. It examines how cultural attitudes toward children and poverty allowed for Christian (predominantly Catholic) charities to grow their influence in the welfare sphere and how this reliance on private philanthropy and reluctance to make policy changes allowed for problems to persist in the foster care system without improvement until the 1970s. Foster care was then rapidly embraced in public discourse. Ireland worked to catch up with the developing social work field in the lead up to the 1991 Child Care Act, but adequate attention was not yet given to the root causes for intervention and inherent problems lingered in its welfare systems from over a century prior.

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