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Migrants' communication with local people in the receiving country : experiences and approaches in Malta
No full textA small island country in the Mediterranean, Malta ranks among the most densely populated EU countries. The fact that Malta is a strategic location between Africa and mainland Europe and that nearly a quarter of its population are migrants gives it a notable position in migration studies. Although interdisciplinarity is inevitable in migration studies, the field of communication is often neglected. The primary purpose of this ethnographic study is to explore how migrants' experiences shape their communication approaches with local people and the receiving society in Malta. To examine this, thirty-five migrants were interviewed, and participant observation was conducted over a period of fifteen months in 2023-2024. Based on the results, migrants are categorised into four groups according to their varying interaction experiences with the local people: hesitant migrants, selective migrants, migrants with positive outlooks, and neutrals. Notably, non-EU migrants who are exposed to ethnic discrimination and discriminatory social media content have a negative approach to communication with local people. In addition, socio-economic conditions play a decisive role in the communication processes of migrants, and proficiency in Maltese is seen as one of the keys to overcoming bureaucratic obstacles for migrants rather than achieving social inclusion. In light of the results, the study demonstrates the need for policymakers, NGOs, and all relevant stakeholders to develop inclusive communication strategies that strengthen relationships between migrants and local people.peer-reviewe
Assessing the stability of EU countries in international chemical trade (2016–2021) : insights from the state-corporation hegemonic stability theory
No full textPURPOSE: The purpose of this paper is finding a stability of positions of particular EU states
on exports and imports of chemicals and related products. The research method is a
describing political-economic analysis which bases on statistical data.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The design is finding the rules of the production and
international trade of chemicals and related products according to the State-corporation
Hegemonic Stability Theory. Author proves that less developed countries are subordinated to
the collective global hegemony of state-powers and biggest transnational corporations.
Therefore, the modern and low-emission production of chemicals is located in high
developed countries, while dangerous and toxic production is realized in less developed
states.FINDINGS: Stable positions of EU particular states in international trade of chemicals and
related products.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The result can be considered to elaborate the short-term and long-term EU trade policy.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: Original research paper.peer-reviewe
Pharmacist contribution in rare diseases
Get PDFIntroduction: Pharmacists
are integral members of healthcare teams,
focusing on medication management, therapeutic
optimization, pharmacoeconomics and treatment accessibility
Addressing the complex medication needs of rare disease
patients requires pharmacists to engage in multiple aspects of
the medication use process This study explores pharmacist
contributions and proposes a structured framework for
improved integration.Aims: •
To describe the current state of rare disease patient
management and access to orphan medications
•
To identify support services provided by patient
support groups to rare disease patients and carers
•
To propose a framework for pharmacist led
contributions in rare disease patient care.Introduction: Pharmacists are integral members of healthcare teams, focusing on medication management, therapeutic optimization, pharmacoeconomics, and treatment accessibility. Addressing the complex medication needs of rare disease patients requires pharmacists to engage in multiple aspects of the medication use process. This study aimed to describe the current state of rare disease patient management and access to orphan medicat ions, identify support services provided by patient support groups, and propose a framework for pharmacist-led contributions in rare disease patient care.peer-reviewe
The impacts of lateral obliqueness and edge angle on Levallois point morphology
No full textThe study of Levallois points is important as it combines themes relating to Levallois technology in general (such as cognitive evolution, standardisation, and cultural transmission) with discussions on the specific function of stone tools (for example, the notion of points as spear tips). Many Levantine Middle Palaeolithic assemblages feature a strong focus on Levallois point production. Traditionally, this phenomenon has been studied from a typological perspective, while more recent technological approaches have added layers of understanding, such as the recognition of the frequently recurrent Levallois character of point production in the area. Likewise, use-wear and residue analyses have led to changing perceptions of the function of Levallois points. Here we explore how two quantifiable aspects of Levallois points - cross-section angles and lateral angles - relate to the morphology of Levallois points. By combining experimental knapping with an analysis of Levallois points from Yabroud I, Syria, we show that the obliqueness of lateral preparatory removals has a significant impact on the morphology of Levallois points, particularly in terms of the feature of a Concorde-shaped profile. Likewise, we show that the lateral edge angle influences the length of the points produced. Not only does this study improve of our understanding of Levallois points, but it highlights the importance of angles in studying lithic technology. We emphasize that this study aims to investigate the impact of oblique preparatory removals on the morphology of Levallois points generally, through an initial case study of one assemblage, allowing future multivariate analysis of multiple assemblages to test our hypotheses.peer-reviewe
A quality of ESG (environment, social, governance) reporting by financial groups in the insurance sector : evidence from Poland
No full textPURPOSE: In light of the ongoing regulatory changes in sustainability reporting (ESG:
Environment, Social, Governance), such as the implementation of the CSRD Directive
(Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) and the European ESRS standards (European
Sustainability Reporting Standards), the quality of ESG reporting is becoming increasingly
important, particularly in the financial sector where public trust is crucial. This study
focuses on assessing the quality of ESG reporting in financial groups that conduct insurance
activities in Poland. Particular attention is paid to the impact of the parent company's
organizational form and ownership structure on the presentation of ESG information.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The analysis was conducted using ESG reports prepared
for the period 2019–2024. Deductive reasoning methods and analysis of the content of
annual non-financial reports of the surveyed insurance companies were used. The paper
presents an original set of key features that demonstrate the report's quality in accordance
with the flagship accounting principles evaluated.FINDINGS: The survey results indicate that the organisational structure of a financial group
and the proportion of foreign capital influence the quality of ESG reporting. Observed
differences in the approach to ESG reporting between financial groups conducting insurance
activity in Poland. They result from organizational and regulatory solutions in the audited
financial institutions. Different solutions for organising the ESG reporting process affect the
quality and manner in which ESG information is presented.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The results of the research may contribute to a better understanding
of the challenges facing the insurance sector and suggest ways to improve the quality of ESG
reporting.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The scope of the study, which covers financial groups from the insurance
sector - a rarely researched area - should be considered innovative. Additionally, the
proprietary methodology for examining the quality of ESG reports expands the knowledge
base in the field of ESG reporting and fills a research gap in this area.peer-reviewe
Wellbeing and policy : evidence for action
No full textDespite the stereotype of the creative as a ‘mad genius’, scientific research suggests that engagement in art, culture, and creativity (ACC) contributes to wellbeing. Documented mechanisms include enhanced enjoyment, social connectedness and support, distraction from suffering, self-expression, skills development, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and states of flow. Both active and passive engagements are positively associated with wellbeing, but the beneficial effects of the former tend to be stronger. Engagement also seems to be more beneficial yet less accessible among disadvantaged groups. Artists tend to report higher levels of wellbeing than non-artists, despite the stressors of their jobs. Causality is hard to determine as positive affect itself may stimulate higher creativity. Recommended actions include supporting artists through increased funding and employment opportunities, promoting ACC engagement among the general public, subsidising ACC involvement for disadvantaged groups, and facilitating research on ACC and wellbeing to better inform future policy-making.peer-reviewe
Unleashing innovation and impact : collection of teaching materials for entrepreneurial education and approaches and good practices for teaching “Entrepreneurship”
No full textThe availability of solid financing can either make or break the survival chances of a business in the process of developing and launching a new product or service on the market. Financing options are plentiful but require careful consideration when deciding the optimal financial structure of businesses. For this purpose, the first part of this chapter focuses on different financial structures for business enterprises and also delves into the opportunities and challenges of each financing option. This chapter starts by distinguishing between debt and equity financing and subsequently presents traditional internal and external sources of finance. Subsequently, it also presents a wide array of contemporary financing options. This chapter then presents an analysis of costs and an understanding of basic break-even analysis. This is followed by an explanation of the main tenets for effective business budgeting. An overview of key financial terminology is then presented before delving into a presentation of the main financial reports. This chapter concludes by providing an insight into some key accounting ratios and their interpretation.peer-reviewe
Innovative high-performance mortars for the conservation of a reinforced concrete water tower
No full textThe Reinforced Concrete Wate tower, constructed in the first half of the 20th Century, was restored using innovative mortars developed to address the requirements of the structure. The restoration was based on research and development of innovative high-performance materials together with their application, new advanced techniques in restoration of reinforced concrete and the development of a smart sensor network system for the durability and structural health monitoring of the structure. The extensive degradation of the structure presented significant challenges in the recovery of the industrial heritage monument and necessitated complex restoration process and the development and application of advanced mortars. The project set a methodology for appraisal and conservation of reinforced concrete heritage structure including the development and application of mortars to address the conservation strategies in concrete.peer-reviewe
Book of abstracts : SIEC-ISBE International Conference 2025
No full textMiddle-class students often have greater access to financial resources, networks, and educational opportunities, making it easier for them to engage in entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship education has the potential to bridge the gap. Based on recent research conducted among Maltese University students regarding their interest, readiness, and knowledge concerning entrepreneurship education (https://academicentrepreneurship. eu/), this session explores different interpretations of entrepreneurship education, threshold concepts in entrepreneurship, and empowering pedagogies adopted to cultivate entrepreneurial skills and knowledge among all students irrespective of their backgrounds. This study highlights the importance of entrepreneurship for economic growth and empowers young people to ‘reinvent’ their approach to entrepreneurship. Maltese students tend to prefer safe career paths, although they perceive entrepreneurship as innovative and rewarding. Financial constraints and a lack of entrepreneurial knowledge and institutional support pose significant barriers, particularly to students who lack either the economic or the cultural baggage. Research results reveal a desire for personalised learning experiences, such as mentorship and workshops, over traditional lectures. The study calls for the development of empowering pedagogies that address these challenges to enhance entrepreneurship education among young people.peer-reviewe
Examining the factors affecting the adoption of telemedicine in the Maldives
No full textIn the age of growing integration of technology in service provision, countries facing
challenges due to diseconomies of scale and unique geographical topographies require a thorough
understanding of how technology can enhance service delivery. This study examines the factors
affecting the adoption of telemedicine services in the Maldives, tracing the evolution from a
community-based healthcare system to a modern allopathic system, now with regional healthcare
providers supporting peripheral service providers. The study employed a mixed-methods
approach, utilizing secondary data from regional healthcare providers, carrying out in-depth
interviews with hospital management, and conducting a comprehensive literature review to gather
systemic insights. Leveraging the Hospital Telehealth Maturity Model, the research specifically
examined platform and program factors affecting the adoption of telemedicine. The study on
telemedicine adoption in the Maldives reveals a basic level of readiness characterized by
fragmented technological implementation, deficient workflow, and inadequate infrastructure in
regional hospitals. There is a need for significant improvement in human resources and supportive
functions, alongside inconsistent policies influenced by shifting political landscapes. Limited
awareness and coordination among stakeholders further constrain adoption capacity. However,
there is potential for progress through enhanced leadership, technological innovation, resource
efficiency, and strengthened adoption capacity to better cater to changing demographics and
patient preferences, ultimately delivering affordable, equitable, and quality healthcare services.peer-reviewe