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Writing samples
This page features my writing samples
They are all related public health
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Biological Basis of Public Health Sample #1
Midterm Exam
You are on the staff of The International Rescue Committee, an organization that provides emergency aid to people facing humanitarian crises. You are charged with delivering food to a country that is torn by a civil war, a consequence of which is famine. Various conditions do not permit the delivery of enough food to end starvation in the country. Consequently, food-aid can be provided only to a small fraction of the population. You decide to focus on feeding pregnant women so as to prevent long-term consequences of maternal malnutrition when the children they are carrying become adults. Questions: Is there a particular time during pregnancy when women should receive preference for scarce food aid? What is that period? What is the biological rationale for focusing on nutrition during a particular time of a women’s pregnancy?
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Biological Basis of Public Health Sample #2
Final Exam
What qualities/functions define “endocrine disruptors?” There are multiple mechanisms
through which endocrine disruptors might affect normal cell physiology. Discuss this with
respect to bisphenol A.
Experimental, clinical and epidemiological studies have indicated dietary exposure to aflatoxin and chronic infection with hepatitis B virus are involved in liver cancer. Discuss.
What is the connection between prion deterioration of the brain and death?
Extended Essay
A prion is a misfolded protein, usually found in mammalian brains. Although the prion is an enigma to many accomplished scientists, I believe that it is important for the general public to understand how a simple protein can impact a life. Not only are prions the cause for infectious diseases like “mad cow disease” but understanding these proteins could help scientists find solutions to diseases like Alzheimers and Huntington’s Diseases. Due to the lack of published information on prions and their volatility, my research depended strongly on the conclusions drawn for previous experiments. I also spoke to numerous neurosurgeons and a pathologist who helped me understand what the research papers were concluding.