https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/401 2026-07-14T15:58:55Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148016 Title: The balance of life and society : why equilibrium matters in biology, chemistry, physics, religion and politics Abstract: In every corner of life, from the smallest cells to the largest social structures, equilibrium is a vital concept. It's a state of balance, a moment where forces or influences are equal, and it's present in ways we may not immediately recognize. Equilibrium isn't merely a scientific or philosophical idea - it's the foundation of stability in biology, chemistry, physics, religion, and politics. Understanding why equilibrium is critical in each of these fields helps us appreciate the natural and social order around us. 2026-07-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147842 Title: The battle between mind and heart : an emotional tug-of-war Abstract: In every decision, big or small, humans confront a timeless struggle: the war between mind and heart. We grapple with logic on one side and emotion on the other, each trying to pull us in opposite directions. This battle shapes who we are, influences our actions, and defines our relationships. While the mind offers clarity, the heart gives meaning; together, they create the bittersweet essence of life. But in our relentless pursuit of happiness, which side should we listen to? Should we let our hearts lead us, or should reason hold the reins? 2026-07-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147743 Title: Exploring the balance between natural and conventional medicine : choosing the right path to wellness Abstract: In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, a central debate lingers: natural versus conventional medicine. Should patients prioritize scientifically proven methods or trust in the healing power of nature? As wellness takes on a more holistic meaning, understanding the strengths and limitations of both approaches has become essential to making informed healthcare decisions. [excerpt] 2026-06-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147724 Title: The flavour of sustainability : Mediterranean aromatic plants as enablers of nutrient-dense and low-salt gastronomy Authors: Jones, Petra; Blundell, Renald; Spiteri, Melania Abstract: Transitioning to sustainable, plant-forward diets, such as the Planetary Health Diet is a global priority; however, the palatability gap remains a formidable barrier, as consumers often perceive low-sodium, plant-centric diets as sensory-deficient. While aromatic herbs could bridge this gap, the current literature rarely integrates their sensory, ecological, phytochemical, and cultural dimensions. This narrative review explores how Mediter- ranean aromatic plants indigenous to the Maltese Islands function as sensory and molecular catalysts to bridge this gap. Through a thematic synthesis (2005–2026) integrating ethnob- otanical evidence with molecular nutrition and sensory science, the Maltese archipelago is examined as a small-island ecological model. Chronic abiotic stressors, including high salinity and intense solar exposure, induce phytochemical priming, significantly enhancing secondary metabolites like polyphenols and terpenoids. These compounds establish a folk–medicine bridge, where traditional culinary practices align with modern biochemical validation. These bioactives demonstrate a capacity to modulate the NF-κB inflamma- tory axis, mitigate systemic inflammaging, and support the gut–microbiome–brain axis. Furthermore, these aromatics serve as translational tools for EAT-Lancet 2025 targets by fa- cilitating cross-modal sensory compensation for sodium reduction and improving nutrient bioaccessibility via the culinary entourage effect. The TASTE-MED framework positions culinary nutrition as a vital translational bridge, asserting that flavour is a prerequisite for dietary sustainability and aligning individual molecular resilience with broader planetary health goals. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z