/library/oar/handle/123456789/46901 2025-11-09T18:02:29Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/45110 Title: Invertebrates in the medical service of man : part 3 : the research assistants Authors: Savona-Ventura, Charles Abstract: The invertebrates have been medically classed as disease vectors, though a number of species have been utilized in the management of surgical conditions or for the bio-therapeutic properties of their secretions. A number of species have been essential tools in front-line research studies which have in some instances received international acclaim. 2007-05-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/45109 Title: Obesity and cardiometabolic risk Authors: Fava, Stephen Abstract: Adipose tissue releases a number of biologically active molecules that are thought to have a causative role in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and vascular disease. Serum free fatty acids (FFAs) are generated by lipolysis (breakdown of stored triglycerides). They are increased in obese individuals as a result of increased adipose tissue mass. FFAs induce insulin resistance, possibly by competing with glucose as an energy substrate and by having an inhibitory effect on insulin signaling. The liver takes up FFAs to synthesise triglycerides and packages them with proteins to form very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). FFAs therefore mediate the association between obesity and hepatic steatosis ('fatty liver') and with hypertriglyceridaemia. High serum triglycerides, in turn, result in small dense LDL and low LDL. These lipid abnormalities help explain the association between obesity and cardiovascular disease. 2007-05-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/45107 Title: The A(&E) team Abstract: Dr Mary Rose Cassar and Dr Anna Spiteri are two female doctors with multiple roles. They are the first two female registrars at the Casualty Department of St. Luke's Hospital, practicing what is relatively a new specialization. They are also members of the two year old Malta Resuscitation Council, making headway into an area they feel strongly about. 2007-05-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/45105 Title: The human papilloma virus vaccine : the do's and don'ts Abstract: There are currently two vaccines against HPV in the market-bivalent and a tetravalent vaccine. However, due to cross-immunity these vaccines protect against a proportion of those strains which may lead to cervical carcinoma. Hence, one has to be clear and understand that these vaccines may not fully protect everyone and certainly do not prevent all types of cervical cancer. These strains of the virus are transmitted sexually, so the use of these vaccines should not give a false sense of security and it is very important that regular cervical screening should not be stopped. 2007-05-01T00:00:00Z