/library/oar/handle/123456789/135398 2026-05-29T14:53:02Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/145922 Title: Foreward message [Malta Medical Students' Journal, vol. 2] Abstract: This second edition features more articles than we have seen in recent years, each article exploring different aspects and facets of medicine, and clearly showing the intrigue and dedication of our students to both the medical field and their careers. That even at such an early stage in their career, they have tried to contribute something of note. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/145921 Title: Nutraceuticals in cystic fibrosis : a literature review Authors: Grech, Manuela Abstract: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a common autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, resulting in multisystem disease and reduced life expectancy. Although CFTR-modulating therapies have transformed disease outcomes, chronic inflammation, infection, and nutritional deficiencies continue to contribute significantly to morbidity. This literature review synthesises current knowledge of CF pathophysiology and management, with a particular focus on the emerging role of nutraceuticals as adjunctive therapies. Nutraceuticals including omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, glycine, probiotics, choline, and novel formulations such as ARINA-1 demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mucoregulatory properties that may complement standard treatment. While preliminary evidence is promising, further high-quality clinical trials are required to establish efficacy and define their role in routine CF care. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/145920 Title: Innovations in home-based care for older adults and their impact on quality of life in Malta Authors: Cauchi, Sybille Mireille Abstract: Malta’s over-80s population will triple by 2050, straining community care systems currently facing 130-day wait times and 40.3% social isolation. This study explores how innovations like smart home technology and active ageing strategies improve quality of life by fostering independence. Analysis highlights that home-based services are more cost-effective than residential care (€47.71/night). In the field of gerontology, main policy recommendations include establishing a Quality Assurance Unit and mandatory specialist training to resolve service gaps. These reforms in Malta are vital for achieving a society for all ages by 2030. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/145919 Title: Paediatric surgery case Authors: Calleja, Peter; Camilleri, Luke Abstract: A complicated type of paediatric surgery case as reviewed in this paper consists of a neonate with two special types of GI atresias; a duodenal atresia (DA) and oesophageal atresia (OA) with distal tracheo-oesophageal fistula (TEF). Atresia can be defined as the congenital absence or obstruction of a normally patent lumen or orifice. While most small and large bowel atresias are thought to be due to ante-natal ischaemic events (vascular insult hypothesis), DA is due to a failure of duodenal recanalization around the 4th to 10th week of gestation. OA/TEF arises from a defect in the formation of the tracheo-oesophageal septum. The patient was prenatally diagnosed with DA via the double bubble sign on ultrasound. Post natally, an attempted nasogastric (NG) tube insertion failed and coiled , confirming OA. The double bubble sign being present simultaneously (such as in DA) therefore indicated a connection between the oesophagus and the trachea such that air is blown into the stomach despite the OA. This is how the TEF was diagnosed , and both conditions necessitate immediate surgical intervention in the first 24 hours of birth. Surgical goals involve fistula ligation , division and restoration of continuous lumen. The standard procedure for OA/TEF (most commonly type C) is primary repair via thoracotomy or thoracoscopy, with end to end anastomosis. DA is primarily repaired via duodeno-duodenostomy, using the Diamond shaped (Kimura) procedure/anastomosis. The management includes pre and post operative care , utilising a replogle tube for suction and sham feeding to maintain oral motor skills and gut stimulation , feeding prior to oral feeds is done with total parenteral nutrition. Post op following both repairs a transanastomotic tube is inserted where the duodenum dilates , in order to allow for the dilation to repair bypassing the surgical site in the meantime. Post operative complications include anastomotic leakage , structures , motility issues and increased risk of chronic issues. Associated conditions like VACTERL association and Downs syndrome are important risk factors for consideration in these patients. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z