Abstract: A method of corneal laser surgery is disclosed. A first periphery is defined at an anterior surface of the cornea. This first periphery bounds a first planar area. A second periphery is defined within stromal tissue of the cornea. This second periphery bounds a second planar area. The second planar area is sized differently than the first planar area. A layer of stromal tissue which is bounded by the second periphery is subsequently incised. Stromal tissue between substantial portions of the first periphery and the second periphery is also incised, such that at least some corneal tissue disposed between the first and second peripheries remains connected to corneal tissue outside of the first and second peripheries.

Abstract: A method for reducing inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease is disclosed. The method comprises reducing the expression of endothelial cell adhesion molecules in the vasculature of the bowel wall by administering a therapeutic dosage of an effective amount of a blend of vitamin E TPGS and gamma-tocopherol. Gamma-tocopherol is also useful when used alone in the invention. The reduction in endothelial cell adhesion molecules is due to the deactivation of endothelial NF?-B by the composition.

Abstract: Methods for using modulating agents to enhance or inhibit occludin-mediated cell adhesion in a variety of in vivo and in vitro contexts are provided. Within certain embodiments, the modulating agents may be used for cancer therapy or to increase immune cell infiltration into tumors. The modulating agents comprise at least one occludin cell adhesion recognition sequence or an antibody or fragment thereof that specifically binds the occludin cell adhesion recognition sequence. Modulating agents may additionally comprise one or more cell adhesion recognition sequences recognized by other adhesion molecules. Such modulating agents may, but need not, be linked to a targeting agent, drug and/or support material.