Abstract Purpose: The discussion of human microplastic exposure by contaminated seafood. Recent Findings: Shellfish pose a potential exposure risk and it is presumed to be dependent on the dose, polymer type, size, surface chemistry, and hydrophobicity of the plastic polymer. Summary: Human activity has led to global use and pollution of plastic. Aquatic life ingested this plastic and there is evidence emerging that it poses a toxic threat towards aquatic life and the humans that consume it. The...

Abstract Before the pandemic started one out of every five college students experienced a diagnosable mental disorder worldwide. As the pandemic creates novel issues for college students it is important to explore methods to help alleviate this future and current mental strain. This article gives suggestions on how educational institutions and professionals can address this rise in mental health challenges. The impact of COVID-19 on collegiate mental health The sudden closure of campus has resul...

Challenges in treating COVID-19     Coronavirus was first discovered in December 2019. The largest issue will be the rapid increase in critically ill patients. As of March 16th, there is no vaccine or drug available and current provisions focus on supportive care: oxygenation, ventilation, and fluid management. Currently, herbal treatments, anti-malarial, and anti-viral medications show potential promise as  an effective treatment.Convalescent plasma: one of the forgotten immunologically based s...

Abstract Remdesivir is a nucleoside analog. Which means that its chemical structure imitates the chemical structure of a nucleotide. Nucleotides are how we store and transmit genetic information. SARS-CoV-2 uses this genetic language as well. To test Remdesivir it was given on a compassionate-use basis to patients hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19. A 9 day trial was conducted and the clinic data was collected for a one month period. This trial included severe cases of COVID-19 infection and ...

Abstract Recent news indicates that Dexamethasone may reduce mortality of severe COVID-19 patients only. COVID-19 infection has been shown to cause multi organ disease caused by autoimmune degradation of the lungs. This lung damage is caused by uncontrolled release of proinflammatory cytokines. In order for the body to best the infection, a coordinated attack from T and B cells is required. However, Dexamethasone is an immunosuppressant that would limit the damage from inflammation but inhibit t...

Abstract Background: A myofascial trigger point is a hyperirritable spot on a skeletal muscle. It is typically marked by a knot that can be felt through the skin. Previous studies suggest that they may be involved in chronic pain disorders, specifically unexplained headaches. The purpose of this study is to review methods to detect myofascial trigger points and their relation to tension-type headaches and migraines.Findings: Several methods have been used to detect myofascial trigger points (MTr...

Abstract This study looks at the effect of microplastic fibers (MPF) on American lobster, Homarus americanus. The life span, molting patterns, and oxygen consumption of larval stages 1-3 and post-larval stage 4 are tested. Overall the results show that the effects of MPF on American lobster larvae are dependent upon the MPF concentration, the stage of the larvae, and the presence of other food. Introduction  Microplastics are any plastic particle less than 5mm in diameter. Most are produced from...

AbstractThe psychological and social effects of the COVID-19 pandemic will persist for years after the pandemic itself has subsided. Recent studies have shown that the pandemic is associated with distress, fear of contagion, anxiety, depression, and insomnia amongst the general population and health care professionals. This may lead to the exacerbation of stress related substance abuse and mood disorders. Both are associated with suicidal behavior. An increase in suicides is a likely consequence...

Abstract          The patterns for fertility mortality, migration, and population are instrumental to guide investment in infrastructure to accommodate population shifts. This study uses other statistical models and the researchers own propriety model to demonstrate the effect of education and contraception on the completed cohort fertility at age 50 years (CCD50), which is the average number of children born to an female from a specific age (15-49 years). This study uses the length of time to ...

Abstract     This study creates a device that is known as an optrode array. Optrode is referring to an optical electrode. This means that the electrodes are able to send signals to the neurons that are stimulated when flashing a light. Several versions were completed with the first causing extensive damage to the brain cortex. The following models were inserted into mice and were shown to cause minimal damage while allowing for long-term (6 month) tolerability.  Introduction    Previous optrodes...