Experts in stroke prevention and rehabilitation from Ireland and abroad took part in a research seminar on Secondary Prevention and Rehabilitation in Stroke which took place today at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland).

The event was hosted by the RCSI Departments of Geriatric and Stroke Medicine and Psychology with support from by the Health Research Board through a Knowledge Exchange and Dissemination Scheme (KEDS) Grant.

The seminar included the presentation of findings from the RCSI-led ASPIRE-S Study (Action on Secondary Prevention Interventions and Rehabilitation in Stroke). This study is providing important information, which was previously unavailable in Ireland, on the management of stroke patients at home, which will help to inform a future strategy on the management of stroke in the community.

ASPIRE-S Lead Researcher, Professor David Williams, Head of Department of Geriatric and Stroke Medicine said: Stroke is the third leading cause of death and leading cause of acquired disability in Ireland. The ASPIRE-S study is the first to assess secondary prevention interventions and adequacy of community rehabilitation interventions post-stroke in Ireland. We are delighted to be joined today by the international speakers who will share their expertise alongside the ASPIRE-S Research Team.

ASPIRE-S Research Team members speaking at the event along with Professor Williams were Professor Anne Hickey, Department of Psychology, RCSI; Dr. Linda Brewer, ASPIRE-S Consultant Geriatrician; Dr. Frances Horgan, Department of Physiotherapy, RCSI and Lisa Mellon, Department of Psychology, RCSI.

The international keynote speakers were Professor Peter Langhorne, Professor of Stroke Care, University of Glasgow who spoke on the topic Stroke Rehabilitation; Professor Charles Wolfe, Professor of Public Health, Kings College London who delivered an address on Cognition in stroke; and Dr. Kornelia Kotseva, Chair of EUROASPIRE IV, Imperial College London who discussed a European study on the use of cardioprotective drug therapies in patients with coronary heart disease.

The event was opened by Mr. Enda Connolly, Chief Executive Officer, Health Research Board and the closing address was delivered by Professor Hannah McGee, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, RCSI.

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

Pictured (l-r, back row) Dr Kornelia Kotseva, Imperial College London; Dr. Eamon Dolan, ASPIRE-S; Professor Peter Langhorne, University of Glasgow; (middle row) Dr Linda Brewer, ASPIRE-S; Professor Charles Wolfe, Kings College London; Professor Emer Shelley ASPIRE-S; Professor Anne Hickey, ASPIRE-S (front row) Carlos Bruen ASPIRE-S; Patricia Hall, ASPIRE-S; Dr Frances Horgan, ASPIRE-S; Lisa Mellon, ASPIRE-S; Professor David Williams, ASPIRE-S.

Researchers from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and Beaumont Hospital have made an important breakthrough in the understanding and treatment of hereditary emphysema. Their research findings were published in this months edition of Science Translational Medicine, a prestigious journal that highlights medical advances resulting from scientific research, thus bridging the research-to-treatment gap. Their exciting findings show how the protein Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) plays an important role in controlling inflammation from white blood cells and its importance for good health.

The research found that Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) is an important protein produced by the liver which, when released into the bloodstream travels to the lungs to protect the lung tissue from disease. Patients deficient in AAT suffer from Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1); a hereditary disorder that leads to the most severe form of hereditary emphysema.

Professor Gerry McElvaney, Professor of Medicine at RCSI and senior author on the study commented: "Our study is the first to reveal the mechanisms by which a lack of the Alpha-1 protein causes an increase in the release of white blood cell proteins into the blood stream. This leads to an autoimmune process in the body that mistakenly recognises these proteins as foreign and activates its own white blood cells to produce harmful oxidants"

"Our research also reveals how a treatment known as augmentation therapy, where Alpha-1 protein purified from blood, is given intravenously, leading to a decrease in the abnormal protein release thereby alleviating the disease associated autoimmunity. This research gives new hope for a better quality of life for sufferers of this chronic condition and may also be applied to other autoimmune associated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Prof McElvaney continued.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein produced by the liver which, when released into the bloodstream travels to the lungs to protect the lung tissue from disease. Patients deficient in AAT suffer from Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1); a hereditary disorder that leads to severe emphysema. Emphysema (otherwise known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)) is caused by inflammation of the alveoli, the sponge-like tissues that take oxygen into the lungs. The disease causes shortness of breath in its mildest form and in its severest form, patients must use an oxygen mask and may need a lung transplant. The first single lung and first double lung transplant recipients in Ireland were people with Alpha-1.

Alpha-1 is much more common in Ireland than in most other countries. After cystic fibrosis, it is the most common fatal inherited lung condition in Ireland (1). Alpha-1 is estimated to affect more than 12,000 people nationally in its most severe form and the less severe form may affect as many as 200,000 individuals in Ireland. 1 in 25 Irish individuals carry the gene for the disease. (1).

In 2004, the Alpha One Foundation initiated the first national screening programme for Alpha-1. To date, more than 11,000 individuals have been tested and 28% were found to be at risk from the disease (1). The World Health Organisation recommends that everyone with COPD or emphysema should be tested for Alpha-1. For more information on how to get tested for Alpha-1, see www.alpha1.ie or contact the National Centre for Alpha-1 at Beaumont Hospital (alpha1@rcsi.ie).

The joint lead authors on the research are Dr David Bergin and Dr Emer Reeves from the Respiratory Research Division of RCSIs Department of Medicine based in the Education and Research Centre at Beaumont Hospital. The research was supported by the Medical Research Charities Group/ Health Research Board, the Alpha One Foundation (Ireland) and the Alpha-1 Foundation (USA).

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and Trinity College Dublin are pleased to announce that they will jointly host the World Congress of Biomechanics in Dublin in 2018 (WCB2018). The conference is potentially worth over €5 million to the Irish economy. The Convention Centre Dublin will be the venue for the congress in July 2018, with 3000 participants expected from all corners of the globe.

The bid will be supported by an All-Ireland Organising Committee which includes biomechanics researchers from all across Ireland- north and south.

Ireland is a world leader in biomechanics research, as well as being at the forefront of the global medical device industry. There is a very strong research community supported by government policy and investment and complemented by an integrated industry base. Eight of the worlds largest medical device companies are located in Ireland employing 25,000 people - the highest number of people working in the industry in any country in Europe, per head of population. The recent establishment by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) of the AMBER (Advanced Materials and BioEngineering Research) Centre is key to providing world-leading research, growing and retaining existing medical device companies and increasing the level of foreign direct investment in Ireland. AMBER is an academia-industry research consortium which includes world leading biomechanics researchers from RCSI and Trinity.

WCB2018 will be co-hosted by the RCSI which houses the largest medical school in Ireland and is the centre for surgical training in Ireland. Trinity College Dublin is Irelands leading university across all international rankings. It encompasses all major academic disciplines and it also houses one of Europes leading biomechanics research centres - the Trinity Centre for Bioengineering.

Prof Fergal OBrien RCSI Professor of Bioengineering & Regenerative Medicine, AMBER Deputy Director and Co-Chair WCB2018 said "We propose to utilise the synergy between engineering and medicine within the AMBER consortium to ensure that WCB2018 is truly interdisciplinary and translational event and will provide a forum for engagement of researchers from both engineering and medicine in addition to the life sciences and industry."

Director General of SFI and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Irish Government, Professor Mark Ferguson, added "The hosting of the WCB in Ireland is a significant endorsement of Irelands leadership position in the area of biomechanics research. It will bring important international focus to the recently established AMBER SFI Research Centre. Dublin has a proven track record for hosting large international science gatherings and is an excellent location for the 2018 World Congress. The Royal College of Surgeons and Trinity College Dublin are to be congratulated on securing such a prestigious event."

Prof Daniel J. Kelly, Trinity Associate Professor and Director of the Trinity Centre of Bioengineering, AMBER Investigator and Co-Chair WCB2018 said "the scientific programme of the congress will feature the best international speakers and a wide programme of subject areas across the spectrum of biomechanics in plenary and parallel formats. We look forward to welcoming all those engaged in the field of biomechanics to Dublin in 2018."

"The World Council of Biomechanics is pleased to award this prestigious event to Ireland. Despite being a small country, Ireland has, for many years now, been one of the leading countries in Europe in terms of biomechanics research and we are very pleased that the meeting will be held in the dynamic city of Dublin and anticipate an exciting and successful congress", said Prof Schmid-Schönbein, President of the World Council of Biomechanics.

ENDS

About AMBER:

AMBER (Advanced Materials and BioEngineering Research) is a Science Foundation Ireland funded centre which provides a partnership between leading researchers in material science and industry to develop new materials and devices for a range of sectors, particularly the ICT, medical devices and industrial technology sectors. The centre is jointly hosted in Trinity College Dublin by CRANN and the Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, working in collaboration with University College Cork and the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland. CRANN is the largest research institute within Trinity College Dublin. It has significant infrastructure, and brings together over 300 researchers from across the Schools of Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Medicine and Pharmacology. CRANN is focused on delivering world leading research and innovation - through extensive proactive collaborations with industry, the commercialisation of intellectual property and the education of next generation researchers.

www.ambercentre.ie

As part of the programme, students have been attending interactive lectures, receiving hands-on training in clinical skills as well as getting practical experience in medicine and scientific tutorials. One of the highlights of the TY MiniMed initiative was where students got to witness a live operation in Beaumont Hospital. Other topics covered over the action-packed five days include human anatomy, genetics, psychiatry, epilepsy and surgery.

Leading medical professionals from RCSI and Beaumont Hospital are delivering the programme, including Professor Marie Cassidy, State Pathologist and Head of Forensic Medicine, RCSI who will give a lecture on Forensic Medicine on Friday 17th January; and Professor Arnold Hill, Consultant breast, endocrine and general surgeon at Beaumont hospital, Chair of RCSIs Department of Surgery and Head of the School of Medicine, RCSI.

Professor Hill, Chair of the Department of Surgery and Head of the School of Medicine, RCSI said ‘The TY MiniMed programme is a great opportunity for students to experience what it is like to train as a medical professional. This is the 7th year of the programme and demand for the programme outweighs the number of places available. Students will have an opportunity to use innovative technology and learn from some of Irelands top healthcare professionals from RCSI and Beaumont Hospital, giving them an excellent insight into careers in medicine, science and research.

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

A new diabetes treatment for children that could replace multiple daily injections with tablets, developed by leading diabetes expert Professor Lou Phillipson, is among the topics beings discussed at the Second Annual 3U Partnership International Diabetes Conference entitled ‘Current Challenges in Diabetes Research which takes place at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) in Dublin today.

Researchers from the United States, Denmark, Belgium, Switzerland and the United Kingdom will gather to address the conference which will focus on hot topics in research into both type-1 and type-2 diabetes. Diabetes is one of the commonest chronic diseases in Ireland affecting an estimated 4-5% of the population.

Lou Phillipson, MD, PhD, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Kovler Diabetes Center of the University of Chicago will present his current research into a specific genetic form of diabetes. Prof Philipson commented that ‘the discovery that diabetes occurring in the first 6 months of life is commonly due to specific mutations affecting the insulin secreting cells in the pancreas has revolutionised the treatment of the condition. Over the last 5 years, with colleagues at the University of Chicago, we have been able to identify specific gene abnormalities in some children which suggested to us that they may not require insulin treatment which would have been the standard treatment in this setting.

‘With careful observation, we have been able to gradually reduce and eventually discontinue the insulin treatment and instead replace it with tablets that control the sugar levels equally well without the need for, or inconvenience of, multiple daily injections. This is an excellent example of "personalised medicine," that is, tailoring the treatment of a condition to the individual based on a clear understanding of the cause of the condition in the particular patient. This truly spans the gap between the bench and the beside, Professor Phillipson concluded.

Other talks at the meeting will focus on how different tissues and the bodys inflammatory responses can contribute to causing the commonest form of diabetes, type 2, and on how we can better understand the factors that contribute to low blood sugar levels, the main side effect of diabetes treatments.

Pictured (l-r) are Dr. Karim Bouzarki, University of Geneva, Prof. Louis Phillipson, University of Chicago, Dr. Miriam Coup, Universite Libre de Bruxelles, Prof. Seamus Sreenan, RCSI, Prof. Hening Beck-Nielsen, University of Southern Denmark, Odense and Prof.Frederik Karpe, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Diabetes is a priority research focus of the 3U Partnership, which brings together the academic strengths of Dublin City University, NUI Maynooth and RCSI to enhance education and research opportunities across the three partner institutions. The 3U Diabetes Consortium, comprising clinicians and scientists from the three institutions, is committed to developing cutting edge research into this chronic and costly disease in Ireland and aligns a number of interlinked areas of research into the condition extending from identifying and developing new molecules with therapeutic potential to providing world class diabetes care and treatments in the clinic.

The Director of 3U Diabetes, Dr Donal OGorman of the department of health and human performance at DCU, commented that ‘one of the major challenges in diabetes research is bridging the gap between the laboratory, where fundamental discoveries into the causes and potential treatments of the disease can be made, and clinical practice. The faculty attending the conference will include clinical and basic science researchers from across the US and Europe who will present and discuss their own research showing how this challenge can be met.

Dr Ruth Davis, Director of the 3U Partnership, will open the meeting and said ‘I am delighted to contribute to this event. We had a tremendous inaugural meeting last year and feel that this conference will lead to the further development of important collaborative links with leading institutions in the world of diabetes research and contribute significantly to the evolution and sustainability of the important 3U Partnership.

Inspiring leadership from individuals who are not in formal positions of authority is one of the areas that will be explored this evening at a lecture by Professor Hilary Sanfey, Professor of Surgery and Vice Chair of Educational Affairs SIU University, Illinois, USA as part of the RCSI Institute of Leadership Lessons in Leadership Lecture Series. This is the first lecture of the Series in 2014 which will be delivered to approximately 100 health professionals at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland), 123 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin.

Speaking ahead of the lecture Professor Hilary Sanfey said: ‘Leadership is a process whereby one individual influences another to achieve common goals. Therefore everyone has the potential to lead even if their position is quite low in the hierarchy and/ or they are not in a position of authority.’

‘Effective contemporary leaders are transformational and are measured more by what they inspire others to accomplish than by what they do themselves,’ she concluded

Professor Sanfey will present one classification of leadership styles, as well as some examples of situations in which their use is effective or ineffective and suggest a number of approaches to bring about change when change is difficult.

Professor Ciaran O’Boyle, Director of the RCSI Institute of Leadership said The Lessons in Leadership’ lecture series continues to explore why leadership is so important and to empower those working in the health sector to develop appropriate leadership competencies. We are delighted Professor Sanfey could join us this evening to share her insights on leadership that are relevant to both the clinical setting and contemporary workplaces in general.

Hilary Sanfey is Specialist Advisor in Postgraduate Surgical Training & Education in the Department of Surgical Affairs in RCSI, currently on leave from her position as Professor of Surgery and Vice Chair for Surgical Education in the Department of Surgery at Southern Illinois University. A graduate of Trinity College Dublin, she underwent surgical training at RCSI followed by three years as a research fellow at Johns Hopkins University. She worked as a Consultant transplant surgeon at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and University of Virginia. Professor Sanfey is a past president of the Association of Women Surgeons (AWS), a former member of the American College of Surgeons Board of Governors, past chair of the American College of Surgeons Women in Surgeons Committee and is the current President of the International Society of Surgery US Chapter.

The RCSI Institute of Leadership is Irelands only third level institution dedicated exclusively to developing the leadership and management capacity of health professionals. While the Institute is a fully academic institution, it maintains close connections with the world of healthcare delivery and its programmes are characterised by flexibility, speed of response, customer service and a blended learning approach that allows our students to learn while continuing to work. The Institute has campuses in Dublin, Bahrain & Dubai and it also deliver programmes in Abu Dhabi, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Lessons in Leadership Lecture Series is free of charge but registration is essential in order to guarantee a place. For further information and to register visit: http://www.rcsi.ie/leadershiplectures2014 or you can join the conversation online, on the night, on Twitter at #RCSILeadership .

2013/2014 Programme

Founded in 1784, RCSI’s mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

‘SPHeRE programme launches at RCSI today

Risk of suicide after self-harm; work stress in non-consultant hospital doctors; and monitoring and assessing the impact of the economic crisis on the Irish health system are among the research areas that will be explored by scholars of an innovative new PhD programme in population health and health services research. The SPHeRE (Structured Population and Health-services Research Education) programme has been awarded €6.3 million by the Health Research Board (HRB) and will be launched today at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) in Dublin.

The programme is a partnership between RCSI, University College Cork (UCC) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD). SPHeREs key objectives are to establish a national network in population health and health services research, expanding to include all higher education institutions in Ireland, and to develop a programme of online modular education accessible to all engaged in this type of research.

Professor Anne Hickey, Director of SPHeRE and Associate Professor of Psychology at RCSI said: ‘The SPHeRE programme will create a network of highly trained researchers who can competently research aspects of the current Irish health system, making recommendations to inform policy and implement changes in practice, with the aim of improving population health and health service delivery for the people of Ireland.

Dr. Teresa Maguire, Head of Population Health and Health Services Research at the Health Research Board said: ‘The HRB has funded this programme because it directly supports our strategic objectives to build capacity in population health and health services research and develop strong evidence to drive positive changes in peoples health, patient care, health policy and health service delivery.

The SPHeRE programme will provide education and training for five cohorts of PhD scholars annually (2013-2017). The programme aims to graduate 30-50 PhD scholars in total.

The SPHeRE programme will develop a national training facility that (i) encompasses all universities in the Republic of Ireland; (ii) provides a meeting place for future cohorts of researchers; (iii) is accessible to those outside the PhD training system; (iv) focuses on research that is relevant to population health and health services challenges in Ireland; and (v) aims to facilitate the translation and implementation of the research produced by its students.

Also speaking at the launch of the event are Mr Tony OBrien, Director General of the Health Service; Professors John Browne and Patricia Kearney, UCC; and Professor Steve Thomas, TCD. A keynote address on the topic of Universal Health Insurance (UHI) entitled: ‘Implementing competitive UHI: benefit basket, pooling, risk-related allocation and other important considerations, will be delivered by Professor Reinhard Busse, Technical University of Berlin and European Observatory on Health Systems.

Topics that will be explored by the SPHeRE programme researchers include:

Risk of suicide after self-harm (UCC)
International research has identified self-harm as being the one of the strongest risk factor for suicide. However, the risk of suicide after self-harm is not well established internationally. Ireland is the only country in the world that has a national Registry for population monitoring of hospital treated deliberate self-harm. This research study is the first national study to establish the risk of suicide and death from external causes after an episode of hospital treated self-harm.

Work stress in non-consultant hospital doctors (RCSI)
With a focus on delivery of quality healthcare, one research project will examine work stress in non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) working in Ireland. Levels of burnout have been found to be consistently higher in doctors compared to other professional groups. Burnout is a major threat to doctors health and consequently to the quality of care they deliver. High levels of burnout in doctors also impacts more widely on health systems in terms of reduced employee performance and increased attrition and emigration. This research examines levels of burnout in NCHDs in Ireland and the role of resilience as a potential protector against doctor burnout.

Monitoring and assessing the impact of the economic crisis on the Irish health system (TCD)
Resilience is also the central theme of a programme of work that focuses on monitoring and assessing the impact of the economic crisis on the Irish health system. The aim of this research is to develop guidelines on how the Irish health system might both withstand and, if possible, benefit from the current economic crisis and to provide strategies to strengthen the Irish health system in anticipation of future crises. In particular, this innovative research will draw lessons from other countries experiences with managing health systems during recessions and analyse Irelands current health system experience in terms of protecting health funding, pursuing efficiencies and promoting reform.

The second RCSI Graduate Entry Programme (GEP) Open Day took place at Connolly Hospital on Saturday January 25th 2014. A diverse range of potential students from Dublin, Sligo, Roscommon, London and New York attended the second GEP Open Day of RCSIs Admissions Season 2014. The first was held in December 2013.


Pictured (l-r) front row is Erica Coughlan, Dr Asiya Suleiman, Martha McCormack, Laura Hughes, Sharon Kennedy; (second row l-r) Diarmuid Hughes, Alexander Mulherin, Claire Keaveney, Maeve McCarthy, Aoife Green, Catherine Duane, Laura Armstrong ; and (back row l-r) Des OCarroll, David Lorigan Shane Carr, Jack Alderson, Professor Seamus Sreenan.

The format of the day was based around small group interactive discovery sessions which provided participants the opportunity to experience ‘a day in the life of an RCSI GEP Student. Saturdays event was opened by Professor Seamus Sreenan, Director of GEP, who welcomed the attendees, provided an overview of RCSI and introduced participants to the format of the day. Professor Sreenan then introduced Shane Carr, RCSI Students Union President, who provided a very insightful talk about the programme and his experience of RCSI as a GEP student and RCSI student life.

The theme for the day was Cardiology with Professor Jim ONeill, Consultant Cardiologist at Connolly Hospital. Prof ONeill introduced a cardiology patient to the attendees in the style of the "case of the week"; a weekly clinical case presented each Monday during the first two years of the programme and which informs the teaching for the week. The case was followed by a series of small group interactive discovery sessions covering Diagnostic Investigations, which provided an introduction to basic clinical skills with an emphasis on cardiology including echocardiography.

Other break-out sessions included an introduction to how the RCSI Virtual Learning Environment ‘Moodle supports learning in the programme, delivered by Eric Clarke, Lecturer in Health Informatics at RCSI and a session focusing on the importance of good communication skills to clinical practice, given by Dr Asiya Suleiman, GEP Clinical Tutor and RCSI Medical School Graduate. Attendees also met current GEP students for 20 minute discussion sessions.

After lunch, details of the Graduate Medicine application process and bank loan facilities were presented by Ms Céleste Golden, RCSIs Admissions Officer. This was followed by Dr Joan Lennon, (RCSI GEP Graduate) who discussed the transition from Medical Student to Internship. The GEP Open Day concluded with a Question and Answer session. Attendees had the opportunity to address their questions regarding the admissions process, tuition costs, loan facilities and medicine as a career with Professor Sreenan, Dr Lennon and Ms Golden.

Professor Sreenan said ‘GEP Open Day continues to provide a great opportunity for prospective graduate students to see what distinguishes RCSI from other Graduate Medicine courses offered in Ireland. We could not hold such a successful Open Day without the collaboration of the patient, teaching staff and our own GEP students who provide superb insight to the programme and the challenges facing prospective students. Feedback was very positive and we hope to meet some of todays attendees as registered GEP students in September 2014.

Celeste Golden added ‘Open Days are extremely important for RCSI and particularly for Graduate students considering their return to full time education. Todays feedback is excellent and is due to the efforts of our GEP students, GEP teaching staff, graduate and the patient who give up their time to collaborate and inform prospective RCSI students. Many of todays graduate attendees will decide RCSI is their College of choice.
Here is an example of such feedback from potential students on the day:

"Very informative, well organised, well presented. Thorough in all aspect. One of the best Open Days Ive attended". - DIT Biomedical Science Graduate.

"Fantastic day really helpful and has provided lots of information on GAMSAT, entry and medicine in general". - University of Sunderland MPharm Graduate.

"Excellent event, invaluable to decision making for GEP". TCD Biochemistry Graduate.

"Far better than any other Open Day attended. Great insight into becoming a medical student. Speakers were great, especially Cardiology patient." - DCU Science Graduate.

"The chance to talk with current GEP Students was very beneficial. The day was well structured and organised and presented RCSI in a very positive way. I will definitely be placing RCSI as No 1 on CAO". - Science Graduate.

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in conjunction with the Health Service Executive (HSE) today launched the countrys first Post Graduate Certificate in Nursing/Midwifery specially aimed at newly qualified nurses and midwives. The programme was designed to provide a unique and major contribution to the professional development of graduate nurses and midwives employed in the Irish health services.

Front left, Dr.Michael Shannon, Director of Nursing & Midwifery, HSE, Mary Wynne, Area Director, HSE, Aveline Casey, President of the Irish Associate Directors of Nursing & Midwifrey (IADNM), Prof.Hannah McGee, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, RCSI, back row left, Prof.Zena Moore, Head of Department of Nursing & Midwifery, RCSI, Chanel Watson, Programme Director & Lecturer, School of Nursing, RCSI, James Hayes, RCSI, Ina Crowley, Associate Directors of Nursing (ADON), HSE, Tom OConnor, Senior Lecturer School of Nursing, RCSI.

The programme, which is fully funded by the HSE, will be offered to up to 1000 graduate staff nurses & midwives nationwide. The programme will be run over two years and will enhance interdisciplinary and collaborative practice by providing students with the opportunity to rotate in different clinical settings.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Zena Moore, Head of the School of Nursing, RCSI said "This novel Post Graduate Certificate in Nursing and Midwifery will enable newly qualified nurses and midwives to develop the knowledge, leadership and clinical abilities which they need to support their early career development. Informed by health care service needs, it will provide graduates with an advanced level of knowledge and competence as well as serving as a platform for continuing professional development and for further postgraduate study."

Dr Michael Shannon, Director, Nursing and Midwifery Services, HSE said ‘I am confident that this programme is a robust model built on international experience and excellence to enable our graduate staff nurses and midwives in meeting service requirements and their individual continuous professional development

The course will commence in March 2014. The programme is a Level 9 National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) and it receives 30 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS).

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

(L-R) Prof.Zena Moore, Head of Department of Nursing & Midwifery, RCSI, Mary ONeill, Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, RCSI, Deirdre Hyand, Senior Research Nurse, Director of Research Nurse Education, RCSI and Chanel Watson, Programme Director & Lecturer, RCSI.

(L-R) Dean Flanagan, Student Officer, Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation (INMO) Dr. Tom OConnor, Department Head of School of Nursing, RCSI, Elizabeth Adams, Director of Professional Development, INMO and Barry OBrien, Director of H.R, HSE.

Dr.Michael Shannon, Director of Nursing & Midwifery, HSE, Sarah Mickan, Director of Nursing, Tallaght Hospital and Paul Gallagher, Director of Nursing, St. Jamess Hospital.

Professor Zena Moore, Head of the RCSI School of Nursing and Midwifery, and Julie Jordan OBrien, Tissue Viability Clinical Nurse Specialist at Beaumont Hospital, will deliver a lecture called ‘Wound Management: Honey, Maggots and other Medical Marvels. During this lecture, Prof Moore will bring attendees through the prevalence of wounds, how to manage them and detail both the human cost and financial cost of wound management to the health service. Prof Moore will then go through a variety of ancient wound care remedies (i.e. use of honey, silver and maggots) which healthcare professionals are now looking to as alternatives to antibiotics due to increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance.

Speaking ahead of the lecture, Prof Moore said, ‘Due to the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance and spiralling cost of wound care to the health service (25-50% of Irish hospital beds are occupied by wound patients with the cost of one problematic wound being between €6,500-10,000 per patient), healthcare professionals are now looking at alternative ways of treating wounds. In essence, healthcare professionals are ‘looking back to go forward in turning to some ancient remedies to treat different kinds of wounds. In the lecture, Julie and I will go through a range of such methods and will provide tips on managing wounds, keeping in mind the old adage that prevention is the best cure when it comes to wounds.

The opening topic of the evening will be a lecture entitled ‘Evidence-Based Medicine. This talk will be given by a clinical lecturer in the department of General Practice at RCSI, Dr Anthony Cummins. Evidence Based Medicine or EBM is an approach to the practice of medicine which makes use of the best available health evidence alongside the doctors expertise and the patients needs and expectations. It has a core aim of delivering to patients the best quality healthcare with their active participation in decision making. During the lecture Dr. Cummins will outline the principles of EBM with examples as well how expert opinion and media coverage of health issues affect patient choices.

Speaking on his RCSI MiniMed talk Dr Cummins said ‘Understanding how healthcare decisions are made is an essential first step in the partnership between the patient and the doctor. Because of the wealth of health information available nowadays to both doctors and the general public, it is vital that we all know how to decide if a health claim is valid. A knowledge of the principles of evidence based medicine brings benefits for both doctors and patients. This lecture will include information sources to help patients understand health issues so that they and their doctors can work together as partners for safer, better quality decision making.

The RCSI MiniMed Open Lecture Series is free of charge; however registration is essential in order to guarantee a place. Previous lecture series have attracted widespread public interest with demand for places far outstripping availability. Register online at www.rcsi.ie/minimed and you can join the conversation online, on the night, on Twitter at #RCSIMiniMed. To view previous RCSI MiniMed lectures from the last series on the RCSI YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/TheRCSI123 .

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

Professor Helen Mayberg, renowned pioneer of deep brain stimulation to treat conditions such as depression, and Dr Jonathan Thon, a leading researcher in therapies for cardiovascular diseases are the keynote speakers at the inaugural RCSI Human Disease Mapping conference. The two-day conference which begins today at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) was organised by small group of RCSI PhD scholars and will showcase the impacts made by young researchers across the world in the refinement of therapeutics and improvement of diagnostics in human disease.

The conference aims to promote scientific progress and to stimulate free exchange of ideas and findings among young researchers devoted to exploring the evolving map of human disease. Scientific sessions will cover a wide range of life-science themes, including neuroscience and psychiatry; cancer and respiratory disease; cardiovascular disease; and regenerative medicine, with emphasis on the unique impact that young investigators have made in the development of new therapies and diagnostics for disease.

Professor Helen Mayberg, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA delivered the opening keynote address this morning on the topic: ‘Rethinking Depression and its Treatments: Insights from Studies of Deep Brain Stimulation’. Professor Mayberg has made astonishing breakthroughs in the field of deep brain stimulation - an invasive but reversible technique involving the implantation of electrodes into the brain to treat depression, Parkinson’s Disease and other disorders. Her work, which has yielded widespread success in the treatment of major depression, has been heralded as one of the first hypothesis-driven treatment strategies for a major mental illness.

Dr Jonathan Thon, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, USA, will deliver the afternoon keynote address: ‘An Impactful Scientific Career’. Dr Thon is an award winning early career researcher. Dr Thon’s research focusses on developing bio-mimetic microfluidic platforms to generate functional platelets and new targeted therapies for thrombocytopenia.

Professor Gerry McElvaney, RCSI Professor of Medicine and Director of the structured PhD programme in which the organising committee of scholars are enrolled, said: ‘This conference is a fitting pinnacle of achievement by these PhD scholars who are in their final year in an innovative structured PhD programme in Diagnostics and Therapeutics for Human Disease, funded by the Health Research Board in Ireland. The scholars have done a fantastic job in organising this international conference; it is a tribute to their creativity and enthusiasm that we have two stellar keynote speakers addressing the conference and participating in round table discussions. In addition, the students have arranged data blitz presentations and an industry panel session to include career development advice across a range of opportunities.’

Oral and poster presentations will be delivered by PhD scholars and postdoctoral research fellows, while a number of key industry figures will discuss recent breakthroughs and potential career opportunities in their field. An evening reception on Thursday 30th will present an excellent opportunity for participants to network with their peers, experienced academics and industry representatives. A round table discussion on the 31st will encourage scientific cross-talk between researchers. This format will allow all the participants to meet, exchange scientific ideas and discuss future research plans.

For further information on the programme visit: www.hdmconference.ie

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

Seventy five Directors and Assistant Directors of Nursing & Midwifery attended a series of ‘Leadership Masterclasses as part of their ongoing leadership development programme with the RCSI Institute of Leadership. The programme is commissioned by the National Leadership and Innovation Centre for Nursing and Midwifery, Office of the Nursing and Midwifery Services Director.

Guest speakers described the strategic context in the Irish and UK health systems and how nurse leaders can respond effectively to challenges both professionally and personally. Tony OBrien, CEO and Chairman of the Health Services Executive (HSE), detailed his vision for the HSE, the 2014 Service Plan, reform and finance and what leaders in the system must be prepared for. He posed a number of challenges for the Directors including patient safety, leading integration of services and budgets. Responding to these challenges Dr. Michael Shannon, Director, HSE Nursing & Midwifery Services, discussed the key issues affecting nursing policy at a national level especially workforce planning.

Pictured at the Leadership Masterclass for Future Nurse Leaders at RCSI Institute of Leadership (l-r) are Ms. Tina Joyce, Ms Mary MacMahon, Dr. Michael Shannon, Mr. Tony OBrien, Ms. Cora Lunn, Ms. Theresa Keane and Mr. Gearoid Hardy.

Avilene Casey, National Care Programme and President of IADM&M, discussed health policy in Ireland and gave examples of strategies Directors can use to successfully influence policy at the local and national level. Dr. Peter Carter, CEO and of the Royal College of Nursing, detailed the current issues facing directors of nursing in the UK especially in light of finding from the Berwick and Francis reports. Emily Logan, Ombudsman for Children, took us through her personal journey from childrens nurse to Ombudsman for Children. She explored transitions, the importance of personal learning and transferable skills. In a though provoking and humorous presentation Senator Marie Louise ODonnell discussed how to influence and communicate ideas effectively through preparation and distillation. Michael Comyn, Founder of the Fearless Organisation, described practical ways in which leaders can build and enhance their resilience. Projecting a positive personal and corporate image was the subject of Ruth Murphys session which included the effective use of personality and style.

The aim of this masterclass series was to enable participant to network at a strategic level with key decision makers in the healthcare system.

For more pictures from the event check visit the RCSI Institute of Leadership Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RCSILeadership

‘Wound Management: Honey, Maggots and other Medical Marvels
Professor Zena Moore and Julie Jordan OBrien, Beaumont Hospital

Today RCSI is hosting a multi-disciplinary tracheostomy and airway intervention course which will run until Thursday 6th February. The course is being led by Mr Joe Hughes ENT Consultant from Mid-Western Regional Hospital.

This interactive course incorporates lectures, workshops and practical simulations and aims to educate and reduce the fear of Tracheostomy to those regular and occasional carers of Tracheostomy patients. Tracheotomy is a surgical procedure which consists of making an incision on the anterior aspect of the neck and opening a direct airway through an incision in the trachea (windpipe). The resulting stoma (hole), or tracheostomy, can serve independently as an airway or as a site for a tracheostomy tube to be inserted; this tube allows a person to breathe without the use of his or her nose or mouth.

The course will improve clinical skills in the assessment and management of patients with challenging and already secured airway. Participants on the course include healthcare providers such as emergency physicians, surgeons, intensivists and critical care specialists, primary and secondary resus responders, multi-speciality CNS nursing division, respiratory therapists and speech & language therapists; all of whom are exposed to the demands of Tracheostomy and Artificial Airway in acute hospital and community setting.

The Airway Intervention component of the course provides clinicians and healthcare specialists the opportunity to familiarise and upgrade current devices and techniques.

Photograph from Tracheostomy & Airway Intervention Course

Breast Cancer Ireland, based at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) has teamed up with World and Olympic Boxing Champion Katie Taylor to launch an awareness campaign, encouraging women of all ages, to download a free app ‘Breast Aware. This app provides women with a discreet monthly reminder and a step-by-step guide on how to perform their self-breast examination to their phone.


Katie has teamed up with BCI to Beat Cancer!

The campaign is targeting women of all ages, but importantly those in their 20s, 30s and 40s to be breast aware, reminding them to check their breasts at the same time every month so that they know what is normal for them and can spot changes early.

Professor Arnold Hill, Chairman of Breast Cancer Ireland (also Head of the School of Medicine and Department of Surgery at RCSI) said ‘We know from studies that breast cancer if detected early has a much more positive survival outcome. Our hope is that by encouraging women to become breast aware from an early age, they will be more familiar with the natural changes in their breasts throughout their monthly cycle, and they will in turn recognise any abnormalities should they arise.

He continued ‘The new iPhone and Android app outlines various symptoms that can present and while most will never experience an abnormality, those that do should contact their GP who in turn will take the most appropriate course of action. This app is a great educational tool, and as we have seen from international research into breast cancer, those that are more informed about their bodies have much more positive treatment outcomes.

Aisling Hurley, Director of Development at Breast Cancer Ireland also commented, ‘We are delighted to have Katie Taylor on board as she is an important role model for young women. As a boxer her hands have protected her and our campaign is challenging women to strengthen their own hands in the fight against cancer.

Katie will be joined by Breast Cancer Ireland Ambassadors, Emma Hannigan, Nicola Turley, Paula McClean, Lisa Convey and Anne Eble who will be seen in a TV and digital campaign which kicked off on February 4th. You can watch the TV ad here. Breast Cancer Ireland (BCI) is a charity set up to raise money for breast cancer research. It is administered through RCSI under the direction of Professor Arnold Hill.

The President of RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland), Prof Patrick Broe has warned there is a serious risk of de-skilling newly appointed surgeons in Irish hospitals. Prof Patrick Broe was speaking to more than 400 surgeons at the annual ‘Charter Day surgical meeting in RCSI today.

Giving his Presidential Address, Prof Broe said, "There have been reports in the media highlighting the serious problem in recruiting high quality specialists of all kinds to come home to Ireland to practice. In surgery, the situation is even more complex and is not just about the reduction in pay. It is also due to the lack of basic theatre resources, rolling theatre closures and the lack of protected beds. This group of surgeons were appointed under a contract designed around the presence of co-located private hospitals, but since these hospitals do not exist, a surgeons week is not fully occupied. In practice, we witness surgeons appointed under these contracts only being able to work three to four days per week and sometimes even less. This is not appropriate and it is not the correct beginning to ones consultant career. It is also very bad value for the tax payers money.

The Clinical Programme for Elective Surgery has addressed the issue and demonstrated clearly that ring-fencing and protecting surgical beds and guaranteeing access to theatres is essential in order to treat surgical patients who need planned surgery. In doing these elective lists trainees can be supervised and surgeons can maintain their own skills. "We know there is spare capacity in some of the private hospitals and we should be working to treat patients in a planned and regulated fashion and use these resources to their full capacity, rather than the current system of feverish activity and referral of patients elsewhere to meet a rapidly approaching target deadline.

In July 2013, RCSI launched the new Surgical Training Pathway, which is progressing very well. In his address the President highlighted some of the issues of the initial six months of the project and acknowledged the input and support of all the specialties as well as the Academic Heads of Department.
RCSI is a community of all its Fellows from all specialties and the programme for Charter Day is aimed at the widest possible participation with specialty parallel sessions running in Colorectal, Upper gastrointestinal and Vascular surgery, Otolaryngology Head & Neck and a joint session between Trauma & Orthopaedics and Plastic Surgery.

The Johnson & Johnson Lecture ‘The Importance of the "Complete Response" Concept for the Future of Rectal Cancer Management will be given by Professor Richard J. Heald, Emeritus Professor of Surgery at Southampton University and Basingstoke Hospital.
A keynote lecture on ‘Professionalism: An opportunity or threat for the Royal Colleges will be delivered by Associate Professor Michael Hollands, President of the Royal College of Surgeons, Australia.

The day will conclude with the 89th Abraham Colles Lecture. Professor Donald E. Low, Director of the Esophagel Center of Excellence, Digestive Disease Institute, Virginia Mason Medical Centre, Washington, USA will deliver the lecture ‘Evolution in Outcomes, Process and Quality Measures in the Treatment of Esophageal Cancer

Professor Richard Heald and Professor Donald Low will both be conferred with an Honorary Fellowship of RCSI at a ceremony in the College on Saturday evening.

Prof Broe concluded "This weekend marks the 230th anniversary of the foundation of RCSI by Royal Charter. The Charter Day meetings provide the surgical community with an opportunity to come together to discuss the challenges, issues and new developments within surgery."

New Study Finds that 1 in 25 People on the island of Ireland Have an Increased Risk of Developing COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Due to an Inherited Gene and Exposure to Cigarette Smoke

Doctors strongly urge people diagnosed with COPD to get tested for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency through a free national screening programme

Researchers from the Alpha One Foundation, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and Harvard University have made a major breakthrough in identifying a significant proportion of the population who have an increased risk of developing COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) due to a combination of inherited genes and exposure to cigarette smoke. The research published this month in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, clarifies the risk of COPD linked to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1), an inherited condition affecting almost 250,000 on the island of Ireland.

The research has proven for the first time that the estimated 1 in 25 people on the island of Ireland, who have inherited a combination of one normal (M) and one abnormal (Z) alpha-1 antitrypsin gene have an increased risk of developing the debilitating lung condition COPD. Cigarette smoke is the most influential factor in determining whether these individuals who carry this combination of genes (MZ) are at a greater risk of COPD compared to those who have two normal Alpha-1 genes (MM).

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein which protects the lungs and deficient individuals with lower than normal amounts of this protein are at an increased risk of developing COPD. Prior to this study, the increased risk of developing COPD as a result of Alpha-1 was only definitively known to affect people who inherit two abnormal (ZZ) alpha-1 genes.

Given the very large number of people in Ireland who have the MZ combination of genes (one normal and one abnormal Alpha-1 gene), doctors leading the research stress that it is even more important than ever that people who have been diagnosed with COPD should be tested for Alpha-1. To date, approximately 1,500 people of an estimated 250,000 people on the island of Ireland have been identified with this (MZ) gene combination.

Professor Gerry McElvaney, Professor of Medicine at RCSI, principal investigator and chairman of the Alpha One Foundation Ireland, said "This research signals a major breakthrough in understanding the heightened risk of COPD for people who have the combination of one normal and one abnormal alpha-1 antitrypsin gene. If people know that they have a genetic predisposition to developing COPD, it allows intervention at an earlier age, encourages smoking cessation and prevents a further decline in lung function in a disease that is otherwise preventable. It also provides an opportunity for other family members to get tested for Alpha-1."

"Funded by the Department of Health and Children, the Alpha One Foundation provides a free national screening programme for Alpha-1, the only national screening programme in the world. We strongly urge people to avail of this service, particularly if they have COPD. Also as Alpha-1 is a hereditary disease, we recommend that all first degree family members of individuals with Alpha-1 should be tested. Alpha-1 can be easily diagnosed by a simple blood test. For more information on how to be tested, contact the National Centre for Alpha-1 based at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin." added Professor McElvaney.

Dr. Kevin Molloy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, the lead author of the study said "Alpha-1 is a common inherited condition that is massively under-diagnosed both in Ireland and internationally. As this research has an impact on a large number of people who have the MZ gene combination, the research will greatly increase awareness and diagnosis of Alpha-1. Knowing that you have a genetic predisposition to developing COPD should encourage people to avoid exposure to cigarette smoke if they definitively know they have a higher risk of developing this debilitating lung condition."

"250 individuals from 51 Irish families took part in the research which set out to determine the risk of COPD for people who carry one normal and abnormal Alpha-1 gene. The participants were first degree family members of individuals with the confirmed MZ gene combination. The research used a unique study design which removed a lot of uncertainty from previous attempts to assess the risk of developing COPD for people who have the MZ gene combination." added Dr. Molloy

The Alpha One Foundation co-ordinates the national screening programme for Alpha-1 at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines recommend the following groups should be tested:
- All chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients
- All non-responsive asthmatics
- All cryptogenic liver disease patients
- All first-degree relatives of people with Alpha-1
- Individuals with reduced levels of AAT
- Patients with panniculitis

For queries, contact the Alpha One Foundation on 01-8093871 or email alpha1@rcsi.ie

For further information, please go online to www.alpha1.ie

Patient Case Studies:

Edwin McCausland, from Lifford Co. Donegal who took part in the research has severe COPD as a result of his combination of genes (MZ) and exposure to cigarette smoke. He first became symptomatic in 1991-1992 when he noticed that he was becoming short of breath when walking down the street, his difficulty breathing being aggravated by car fumes. He was first diagnosed with COPD and Alpha-1 in 2007 when his breathing deteriorated to the point where he had difficulty climbing stairs. Since his diagnosis he has given up cigarette smoking and is currently attending the lung transplant unit in the Mater Hospital and has also attended a specialized Alpha-1 clinic in Beaumont Hospital. His brother Ronnie also took part in the research. He has the same combination of genes as Edwin but he never smoked and does not have any lung symptoms or COPD.

*Thumbnail Image Courtesy of Fried Dough/Flickr

3U Leadership Symposium - Leadership & Trust: Challenges and Opportunities for Professional Practice
1 March 2014, Iontas Building, NUI Maynooth North Campus

The second annual 3U Leadership Symposium will take place on Saturday 1 March 2014 at NUI Maynooth. Following on from last years successful event, the theme of leadership and professionalism will be further developed with keynote speaker, Professor James P. Spillane, School of Education & Social Policy, Northwestern University, Illinois, USA addressing delegates on the theme of distributed leadership in organisations residing in a pluralist environment. Other key contributors to the symposium include Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald T.D.; Professor David Coghlan, Organisation Development, TCD; Professor Freddie Wood, President of the Medical Council: and Tomás Ó Ruairc, Director of the Teaching Council.

The symposium will also feature research by graduates of:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership (Tóraíocht), offered by the Education Department in NUI Maynooth, in partnership with Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST)

• MSc programmes in Leadership at RCSIs Institute of Leadership.

The symposium organisers, Paula Kinnarney, Education Department (NUI Maynooth) and Dr Pauline Joyce, Institute of Leadership (RCSI) believe that "this symposium is unique as it addresses a gap in research into educational leadership spanning both the teaching and healthcare sectors."

This one day event offers both academics and postgraduate students the opportunity to learn about emerging practice in action-oriented research and to share their leadership experiences within two very different but complimentary sectors.

To register for the conference and for further details, please email andreaclarke@3upartnership.ie by
19 February 2014.

For more information, see www.3upartnership.ie.

The RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre, which is part of the RCSI Institute of Leadership, has launched its ‘Be a Cyber Pal! initiative as part of the Centres participation in Safer Internet Day 2014 taking place today. The Cyber Pal concept, which is based on solid and established cyberpsychological research findings, is in line with the theme of Safer Internet Day 2014, ‘Creating a Better Internet Together and aims to improve behaviour online, particularly amongst children and young people.

‘Be a Cyber Pal! encourages young people to follow seven steps to improve safety online including: ‘Dont be a bystander: be a Cyber Pal and ‘Reach out to a trusted Cyber Pal when feeling lonely or down. The initiative was developed by Mary Aiken, Director of the RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre and Dr. Ciarán Mc Mahon, Research & Development Coordinator, RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre.

Safer Internet Day which was launched by Ruairi Quinn TD, Minister for Education and Skills, is part of a global drive to promote a safer internet for all users, especially young people. The event is organised in Ireland by Webwise and aims to educate and raise awareness about protecting children online, so that they can responsibly enjoy the benefits of the internet, without compromising their safety and privacy. The focus of Safer Internet Day 2014 is to reach out to young people and encourage them to address the issue of cyber bullying themselves by leading awareness raising campaigns in their clubs, schools, and communities.

Mary Aiken Director of the RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre said: ‘Youth empowerment and positive action lie at the centre of the ‘"Be a Cyber Pal!" protocol which aims to support the overall messaging of Safer Internet Day 2014 which is to promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially amongst children and young people across the world.

‘The RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre is delighted to partner with the Irish Safer Internet Day 2014 team to produce anti-cyberbullying messaging that is targeted, appropriate, empowering and most importantly academically grounded, Mary concluded.

‘Being part of this initiative reflects a central aim of the RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre, which is to produce evidence-based insight and advice in a fast-changing environment, added Dr. Ciarán Mc Mahon, Research & Development Coordinator, RCSI CyberPsychology Research Centre.

At the launch event for Safer Internet Day 2014 Minister Quinn also unveiled a new anti-cyber bullying schools kit, the #UP2US Anti-Bullying Kit, containing awareness raising material, a new teaching resource for dealing with the issue of cyber bullying through the curriculum in post primary schools and an innovative interactive poster initiative. The pack will challenge young people to find new ways to use the internet and social media to stand up to bullying and show solidarity with victims.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Quinn said, ‘This innovative education resource will support the efforts of schools to prevent bullying behaviour through the fostering and development of a positive culture and climate that is based on inclusivity and respect both in schools and in the online communities where children spend time. Effective practice includes prevention and awareness raising measures across all aspects of bullying and involves strategies to engage pupils in addressing problems when they arise. In particular, such strategies need to build empathy, respect and resilience in pupils.

The ‘Net Children Go Mobile report also released at the event has revealed that increased use of mobile devices have created new areas of risks such as increased levels of bullying and exposure to potentially harmful Internet content. The report showed that girls are more likely to be bullied online than boys and that new strategies are needed to ensure young peoples safety and welfare in a post-desktop internet environment.

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.

Further information on ‘Be a Cyber Pal! can be found at: http://webwise.ie/CyberPals.shtm

Brendan Noonan, Senior Vice President of Group Learning and Development at Emirates Group will present a talk entitled ‘Leadership Lessons from a Global Airline Company this evening as part of the RCSI Institute of Leadership Lecture Series. This is the third lecture of the 2013/2014 RCSI Lessons in Leadership Series which will be delivered to approximately 100 health professionals at RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland), 123 St Stephens Green, Dublin.

Speaking ahead of the lecture Mr Noonan said: ‘Leaders must have vision, develop a strategy and implement it correctly, and implementation can only be achieved through development of staff that have the skills knowledge and attributes to deliver a safe customer focused service.

Mr Noonan lecture will present the story of how Emirates Airline has become a global aviation company and will outline the leadership steps that had to be taken to achieve success.

Professor Ciaran OBoyle, Director of the RCSI Institute of Leadership said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Brendan Noonan at this evenings Lessons in Leadership lecture. With organisations in the healthcare sector and beyond becoming increasingly large-scale, complex and globalised, there will be numerous invaluable insights from the global airline industry which are relevant to those in positions of leadership across many sectors.

Brendan Noonan is an aviation veteran having worked in the industry for more than 30 years. In his current roles for the Emirates Group which incorporates Emirates airline and DNATA , the worlds 4th largest ground handling company, he is responsible for the learning and development needs of over 65,000 staff worldwide (excluding Engineering, Cabin Crew & Flight Crew) and manages a team of 176 staff. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, he has just completed 21 years with the company based in Dubai, having started in 1992 following earlier positions in London and Bahrain with Thomas Cook, London Olympic Airways and Gulf Air. He has travelled extensively and has delivered service training programmes and strategy development programmes for many different airlines, hotels and banks worldwide, during his career.

In 2011 he was requested by An Taoiseach to participate in the Global Irish Economic Forum with a select group of key Irish business people from across the globe. The objective was to look at options that could help the country develop its GDP and assist the Irish Government in finding solution to its financial crisis.

Emirates accolades under Brendans remit include Aviation Business Magazines - Education & Training Provider of the year award for 2012/2013 in the Middle East region; Distinction in Learning & Development at the 2012 Annual MENA HR Awards, Group Learning & Development; and e-Learning Program of the Year 2013 from Skillsoft and Xpert Learning.

Brendan is a MBA Graduate of the Bradford School of Business UK, a Chartered Member of the Institute of Logistic & Transport and a member of the American Society for Training & Development. He is also a board member of the London Business School - Global Business Consortium.

The RCSI Institute of Leadership is Irelands only third level institution dedicated exclusively to developing the leadership and management capacity of health professionals. While the Institute is a fully academic institution, it maintains close connections with the world of healthcare delivery and its programmes are characterised by flexibility, speed of response, customer service and a blended learning approach that allows our students to learn while continuing to work. The Institute has campuses in Dublin, Bahrain & Dubai and it also deliver programmes in Abu Dhabi, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Lessons in Leadership Lecture Series is free of charge but registration is essential in order to guarantee a place. For further information and to register visit: http://www.rcsi.ie/leadershiplectures2014

2013/2014 Programme

6pm, 12th February 2014

Mr Brendan Noonan, Vice President Learning & Development, Emirates Airline, Dubai , UAE
‘Leadership Lessons from a Global Airline Company

6pm, 14th May 2014

Mr Jimmy Sheehan, Galway Clinic
‘The Leadership Challenge in the Private Healthcare Sector

Founded in 1784, RCSIs mission is to develop healthcare leaders who make a difference worldwide. RCSI is a not-for-profit health sciences organisation which focuses on education and research to drive positive change in all areas of human health worldwide. RCSI is headquartered in Dublin and is a recognised College of the National University of Ireland.