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Abstract or Project Description

Abstract or Project Description

Despite medical advances, a significant proportion of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) patients are resistant to therapies, with CD4 T cells being consistently activated. Analysis of inflamed tissues from a cohort of refractory IBD patients reveals an enrichment of metabolism gene transcripts in CD4 T cells. Exploring the mechanisms, our preliminary data demonstrate that several proinflammatory cytokines can independently trigger metabolic phenotypes which we believe reinvigorates the pathogenic function of CD4 T cells. This led us to formulate the hypothesis that IBD CD4 T cells, governed by metabolic cues, utilize common intracellular metabolites to drive inflammatory response that results in disease pathogenesis. Thus, our research goal is to identify the metabolic vulnerabilities of IBD CD4 T cells, which will consequently guide strategies for developing efficacious therapies.

Abstract or Project Description

Recently there has been increased evidence that patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) commonly have disrupted sleep, and disrupted sleep correlates with the risk of disease flare. The sleep/wake cycle, immune function, and multiple biological processes are orchestrated by the circadian clock. The central circadian clock in the brain entrains these processes to the environment by light exposure, and CD subjects have evidence of misaligned circadian rhythms that correlate with subclinical inflammation. The long-term goal of this research proposal is to show that bright light therapy in CD improves barrier integrity, reduces markers of subclinical inflammation and modifies the microbial structure/function to an anti-inflammatory state. To test this hypothesis, we will conduct a randomized crossover trial of morning bright light therapy (60 min) given by a wearable device (Re-timer™). We will do three assessments in inactive CD subjects at: 1) baseline; 2) after four weeks of wearable glasses with bright light therapy; and 3) after four weeks of wearable glasses without bright light therapy. The results of this innovative proposal will improve quality of life in CD subjects, reduce the risk of disease flare and identify novel circadian regulated targets for the treatment of CD.

Abstract or Project Description

A site-specific and transdisciplinary work set across San Francisco’s Chinatown exploring queerness, mixed lineages and audience connection through song, movement, food and drag. At its core, it focuses on ancestral healing and the collective relationships we have with our mothers or mother figures.

Abstract or Project Description

To support teachers and staff at Menlo-Atherton High School.

Abstract or Project Description

To support operations and direct research expenses.

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Mindful Life Project (MLP) has administered their multifaceted whole-community mindfulness-based social emotional learning programs within four East Oakland district and charter schools over the past four years.

Abstract or Project Description

The Movement Generation Justice & Ecology Project catalyzes transformative action for the liberation and restoration of land, labor and culture, aligning with low-income communities and communities of color towards a Just Transition from profit-driven practices to sustainable, life-affirming local economies. Through political education, strategic facilitation and cultural transformation, they advocate for a shift towards justice and resilience in socio-economic systems.

Abstract or Project Description

To support the My Other Brother and My Other Sister programming, which provides holistic wrap-around support services to African American students in Oakland through belonging and community, fostering student leadership, scholarship, post secondary education and personal growth.

Abstract or Project Description

A dance piece using improvisational techniques to confront white supremacy and catalyze social change by developing methods of inquiry rooted in experimental performance to fuel cathartic, game-changing conversation around privilege, supremacy, economics, immigration and race.

Abstract or Project Description

To help Norcal Crew continue to provide a great on water rowing experience for youth in Redwood City, CA.

Abstract or Project Description

Nursing Heart Inc. is a nonprofit organization focused on providing healthcare services and educational opportunities in underserved communities, primarily in Central America. Through medical missions and training programs, Nursing Heart Inc. aims to improve access to healthcare and empower local communities to lead healthier lives.

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Supports deepened efforts in the areas of data sharing, literacy advocacy and sector alignment.

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To support the Exploring Public Art Practices Symposium.

Abstract or Project Description

Supports the continuation of the Oakland Public Library’s programming fund, which offers year-round programs for children, the West Oakland story bus service (transporting children in West Oakland to local branches) and book giveaways.

Abstract or Project Description

Unrestricted support to help fund arts education programming.

Abstract or Project Description

To provide continued coordination and logistic support for the Oakland Early Learning Symposium, a city-wide collaborative effort. The Symposium offers formal and informal early childhood educators and providers the opportunity for professional development that is unified, evidence-based and responsive.

Abstract or Project Description

This grant funds district coaches assigned to focus schools to improve literacy instruction and intervention.

Abstract or Project Description

An interdisciplinary work of dance, theater and visual art installations that explores the innate connection between creation/destruction and birth/death through the lens of queer performance and intergenerational Drag ancestry.