/library/oar/handle/123456789/144 2025-12-22T21:06:57Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142415 Title: Artificial intelligence and the future of radiation science : automation, personalisation, and ethical considerations Authors: Mifsud, Andre; Blundell, Renald Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming radiation science by automating complex processes, personalising treatment, and enhancing diagnostic precision. In radiation oncology, AI-driven tools optimise treatment planning, reduce exposure, and improve patient outcomes through data-informed decision-making. These innovations allow clinicians to focus more on critical reasoning and patient-centred care rather than repetitive tasks. Yet, as automation deepens, concerns about transparency, accountability, and the loss of human oversight grow. This paper examines how AI learns from vast datasets to guide diagnosis and therapy, its role in automating and personalising care, and the ethical challenges that accompany its clinical role. Balancing innovation with human judgment remains essential to ensure AI continues to advance medicine responsibly. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142410 Title: The biochemistry of seeing, dating and relationships Abstract: In the modern world of love and connection, we often hear terms like "seeing someone," "dating," and "being in a relationship." These phrases, which may seem interchangeable to some, actually represent different stages in the romantic journey. Each stage elicits unique emotional and physiological responses, driven by complex biochemical processes that influence how we feel, behave, and connect with one another. In this article, we'll explore the subtle distinctions between these stages, examining the underlying biochemical mechanisms that differentiate "seeing someone," "dating," and "being in a relationship." 2025-12-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142326 Title: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and metabolic syndrome : a Maltese study on biomarkers and clinical implications Authors: Gauci, Jonathan; Gauci Pullicino, Stephanie; Caruana, Emma; Petroni Magri, Vanessa; Formosa, Melissa Marie; Fenech, Anthony G.; Fava, Stephen; Montefort, Stephen; Fsadni, Peter Abstract: Purpose: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) are both characterized by inflammation and appear to be linked. The study aims to characterize COPD in Maltese individuals with diabetes and MetS for the first time. The research project also aims to identify biomarkers that are significantly associated with COPD endpoints in the study population having both COPD and MetS.; Patients and Methods: The study was carried out at Mater Dei Hospital, which is Malta’s main general hospital and is government managed. Research subjects were recruited from the Diabetes Clinic. A respiratory questionnaire was administered, followed by the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) testing, spirometry and phlebotomy. The American Heart Association (AHA) and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) criteria were used to diagnose MetS. A postbronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio of less than 0.7 was necessary to diagnose COPD, as recommended by Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines; Results: The study group consisted of 24 subjects diagnosed with both MetS and COPD. The group showed heterogenous results with a mean St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire for COPD total score of 41.7, mean distance on 6MWT of 359m, mean FeNO of 12.2ppb, and mean Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second of 64.6%. While 62.5% had a modified Medical Research Council score of ≥2, 95.8% had a COPD Assessment Test score of ≥10. One-fourth of the group were at risk for clinical depression, and 20.8% showed severe fatigue. Blood lymphocyte count, ferritin, triglycerides and glucose were significantly associated with multiple respiratory parameters in diabetic MetS subjects with COPD.; Conclusion: The local diabetic MetS study population with COPD is heterogenous, with high levels of depression and fatigue. The emergence of biomarkers in this population has clinical and therapeutic implications. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142219 Title: The hidden health benefits of Christmas festive foods Abstract: As the festive season approaches, kitchens around the world begin to fill with the nostalgic aromas of roasting chestnuts, citrus zest, cinnamon, mulled wine, and freshly baked treats. Christmas may be known for indulgence, but many of the foods traditionally enjoyed during the season offer remarkable nutritional value. Behind the sparkle of celebration lies a rich tapestry of ingredients that support immunity, digestion, heart health, and overall wellbeing - benefits we often overlook in the rush of December festivities. [excerpt] 2025-12-01T00:00:00Z