https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/39235 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:33:00 GMT 2026-04-16T11:33:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/435 Title: Clinical audit: a synopsis Authors: Tilney, Myra Kay Abstract: This synopsis is a brief report of the proceedings of the Clinical Audit Seminar organized by the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Committee, held on the 29th October 2002. The seminar attracted a broad inter-professional audience, mainly consisting of doctors but also including pharmacists, nurses, and health service managers. In an effort to provide a broader focus, an effort has been made to introduce various perspectives on the topic, including one external to medicine. The idea was to try to learn concepts from other professions which could then be used to improve patient care; this practice has taken place in many industries, and is finally beginning to develop in medicine in different spheres. Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/435 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/434 Title: Of mind over...matter Authors: Felice, Arthur G. Abstract: The distinct division of clinical symptoms into what is somatic and what is psychological in human sciences, has its roots in Cartesian thinking which may have been given a lopsided emphasis. This essay argues against this strict division, using examples and data mainly referring to gastrointestinal functional somatic syndromes (psycho-somatic disorders). The effects of context and also of psychotropic agents on this interaction between psyche and soma is discussed. Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/434 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/433 Title: Trichobezoar in a 13 year old Male: a case report and review of literature Authors: Pace, Alistair M.; Fearne, Christopher Abstract: Case report of a trichobezoar occuring in the stomach of a 13 year old boy known to suffer from trichotillomania. 90% of trichobezoars occur in adolescent females and the occurrence in males is rarely documented. The clinical presentation and complications of trichobezoars are discussed. Differential diagnosis of epigastric masses in children and the investigations utilised to diagnose these intragastric hairballs together with possible hypothses on their pathogenesis are discussed. Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/433 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/432 Title: Studies on Maltese Consanguinity Authors: Vassallo, Luis A. Abstract: The possible genetic consequences of consanguinity have been known from ancient times, though different societies have held varying views. Some have encouraged consanguinity as desirable and the classic examples are the sister brother marriages of the Egyptian Pharaohs and also of the ancient Irish and Inca Royal families. Mother-son, father-daughter marriages are only said to occur occasionally among the primitive tribes such as the Minahassa of Celebes. In certain countries, consanguinous marriages are very common. The Japanese population of nearly 100 million has a remarkable degree of inbreeding, reaching a consanguinity rate of approximately 20% in many districts, while in Central and Southern India many populated areas are claimed to have a 60% consanguinity rate. Inbreeding is typically common in isolate population, and small island communities or `closed' populations are most frequently associated with this phenomenon. Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/432 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z