ELEXIS Based Screen of Human LIGs with ErbB1,2,4

Several types of cancer have been linked to the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) family of tyrosine kinases. An EGFR homolog in Drosophila, dEGFR, was found to be inhibited by a protein called Kekkon1 (Kek1). Kek1 is a member of the LIG super family, meaning it contains both Leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) and Immunoglobulin (Ig) domains. Based on structural similarities it was hypothesized that members of the human LIG family could interact with the human members of the EGFR family. An ELEXIS interaction assay was used to test interactions between human LIGs and the EGFRs (ErbB1,2,4). Interactions between different human LIGs were also tested. Binding between the human LIGs and receptors could indicate the potential use of LIGs as a cancer therapeutic

Ebola: Managing the Guinea Outbreak

Ebola is a serious health issue in Guinea and current protocols need to change to successfully combat it. Our short term approach will supply resources to afflicted areas, and in the long term we plan to identify at-risk areas, fortify their medical systems, and educate the public on Ebola. Future outbreaks are expected to be contained with fewer cases and lower mortality rates. Through policy changes, Guinea will have the tools needed to deal with current and future Ebola outbreaks

Freestanding Emergency Department - A Stakeholder Study: Exploring the Feasibility of Freestanding Emergency - Departments in Ware, Massachusetts

The main purpose of this project was to determine the feasibility of establishing a UMass Memorial Medical Center (UMMC)-operated Freestanding Emergency Department (FED) in the town of Ware, MA. Ware and surrounding communities lack access to emergency care, which puts citizens at risk when significant medical care is required in a timely fashion. Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware made the decision to close its inpatient facility in September, 2016. The proposed closure of the emergency department in two years is of significant concern to the residents in the area. It was concluded that FEDs were the best alternative to provide sufficient and cost-effective emergency medical care analogous to that provided by hospitals to the residents of west-central Massachusetts