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Abstract or Project Description

Abstract or Project Description

The incidence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease is increasing worldwide in lockstep with modernization and worldwide ‘Westernization’ of lifestyles. One of the most important aspects of Westernization for human health is the adoption of a diet high in fat and sugar and low in fiber. Relatively little is known about how dietary sugar specifically affects the incidence and severity of IBD, though increased intake has been associated with disease, and diets low in simple sugars have shown promise in combating IBD in the clinic. Our preliminary data has indicated that a short course of dietary sugar supplementation is sufficient to induce a lethal syndrome characterized by profound intestinal pathology in mice undergoing a common colitis protocol. Additionally we have associated increased sugar in the diet to population shifts in intestinal immune cells. Here we propose to study how sugar mediates changes to the immune system and colon resident bacteria and how they might lead to a breakdown of the intestinal epithelium. At the conclusion of this work we hope to define novel sugar-modified mechanisms of the intestinal immune response with the hope that these will aid in efforts to design diets for IBD patients that will reduce inflammation and disease flares.

Abstract or Project Description

To support the full-time art teacher whose annual compensation is $69,000 this academic year.

Abstract or Project Description

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease associated with significant morbidity. While the etiology is incompletely understood, alterations in intestinal microbiome composition and immune regulation play prominent roles in disease pathogenesis. Dietary therapies, including exclusive enteral nutrition, have been demonstrated to have favorable effects on disease activity but are limited by poor tolerability, high cost and logistical challenges. Other dietary strategies have been incompletely studied. Therefore, prospective studies on the impact of specific dietary interventions on disease activity, including microbiota composition, immunophenotype and biomarkers represent an unmet need. Time-restricted feeding is a form of intermittent fasting which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in several conditions and is a no-cost and easy-to-implement intervention. This study will investigate the impact of a 4-week trial of time-restricted feeding on clinical disease activity, inflammatory and metabolic markers, the intestinal microbiome and immune cell composition in patients with mild-to-moderate Crohn’s disesae. Patients will undergo baseline clincal, nutritional and biochemical assessment prior to a 4-week intermittent fasting regimen for 16 hours daily. Longitudinal changes within the intestinal microbiome, inflammatory markers, and lymphocyte immunophenotype will be assessed before, during and post-intervention.

Abstract or Project Description

Sycamores, formerly known as Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services, has been dedicated to supporting individuals and families in Southern California for over a century, offering vital care and services during challenging times. With a rich history dating back to 1902, Sycamores continues to provide innovative and impactful behavioral health programs, positively affecting over 18,000 lives annually,

Abstract or Project Description

The human intestine is home to trillions of bacteria of hundreds of different types, which are collectively referred to as the gut microbiota. Ideally, these microbes exist in a balanced state, where both microbe and man benefit from their presence. However, imbalances in the microbiota, which are referred to as ‘dysbiosis’, have been suggested to underlie the development of a variety of inflammatory diseases, including IBD. While there is broad consensus that microbiota composition in patients with IBD differs from healthy controls, it remains unknown whether this dysbiosis is a cause or effect of the imbalanced immune responses that underlie IBD development. Here, we propose to use a new model system to experimentally examine the effect of dysbiosis in patients with IBD on the gut immune system. These studies will reveal whether imbalances in the gut microbiota play a causal role in the immunological imbalances that trigger IBD development, and will reveal potential mechanisms by which we can correct dysbiosis to prevent or cure IBD in the future.

Abstract or Project Description

Youth Beat provides free digital media training to kids from some of the Bay AreaÕs lowest income neighborhoods. Their mission is to help inner-city kids get on a path that leads to success in college, career and life.

Abstract or Project Description

An immersive multimedia public performance project that employs interactive technologies to imagine possible futures in the era of climate change. Led by artist Tiare Ribeaux and ZERO1, TransGenesis brings together members of the Bay Area queer/People of Color arts and environmentalist communities as collaborators to collectively re-imagine our relationship to the environment and each other.

Abstract or Project Description

Uplifts the experiences of individuals affected by incarceration through an ensemble cast including former inmates. Premiering as part of AfroSolo Arts Festival’s 25 year anniversary.

Abstract or Project Description

Examines the devastating impact of the crack epidemic both locally and nationally. The project highlights the intergenerational trauma experienced by communities and explores intersections between the crack epidemic, the effect of natural disasters on communities of color and the current opioid epidemic.

Abstract or Project Description

AnnieCannons Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides technical training and job opportunities in software development to individuals who have experienced human trafficking or other forms of exploitation, empowering them with valuable skills for economic independence and social reintegration.

Abstract or Project Description

Examines the effects of technology on how we share information and how we perceive and interact with the world around us and one another. Through a combination of motion capture, live interactive visual effects and the expressive power of dance, IN CIVILITY seeks to offer a more embodied vision for technology.

Abstract or Project Description

An ongoing monthly column that will pair 16 artists, writers, critics, curators and other arts practitioners who intersect with diverse artistic practices in an exchange of “letters.

Abstract or Project Description

To support SEEDS of Learning, an eight month professional development program for transitional kindergarten and kindergarten teachers, that includes materials, classroom tutor resources and ongoing coaching support.

Abstract or Project Description

Athletic Scholars Advancement Program (ASAP) is a student-centered college access and persistence program based at Mission High School, focused on getting students to and through college. They encourage all students to realize their full potential for college completion.

Abstract or Project Description

Bay Area Educational Institute (BAEI) was founded for the purpose of starting an independent high school in the Bay Area and developing programs serving secondary students with learning differences.

Abstract or Project Description

BAICFFÕs mission is to present engaging, culturally diverse films and education programs for children and families.

Abstract or Project Description

Created in 1978, the mission of the Bay East Association of REALTORS¨ Foundation is to provide financial support for education and charitable needs within the community.

Abstract or Project Description

Inspired by Archibald Motley’s paintings depicting multiracial figures of African descent. Through collaborations, choreographer Raissa Simpson will reinterpret Motley’s work in a dynamic performance and engage audiences in a timely examination of racialized bodies and identity.