162 research outputs found
Shifts in stability and control effectiveness during evolution of Paraves support aerial maneuvering hypotheses for flight origins
The capacity for aerial maneuvering shaped the evolution of flying animals.
Here we evaluate consequences of aviaian morphology for aerial performance
(1,2) by quantifying static stability and control effectiveness of physical
models (3) for numerous taxa sampled from within the lineage leading to birds
(Paraves, 4). Results of aerodynamic testing are mapped phylogenetically (5-9)
to examine how maneuvering characteristics correlate with tail shortening,
fore- and hindwing elaboration, and other morphological features (10). In the
evolution of the Avialae we observe shifts from static stability to inherently
unstable aerial planforms; control effectiveness also migrated from tails to
the forewings. These shifts suggest that some degree of aerodynamic control and
and capacity for maneuvering preceded the evolution of strong power stroke. The
timing of shifts also suggests some features normally considered in light of
development of a power stroke may play important roles in control.Comment: 12 pages, 6 figures, 1 supplemental figures and 5 supplemental table
Autoimmunity in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Dry eye is a chronic corneal disease that impacts the quality of life of many older adults. keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), a form of aqueous-deficient dry eye, is frequently associated with Sjögren’s syndrome and mechanisms of autoimmunity. For KCS and other forms of dry eye, current treatments are limited, with many medications providing only symptomatic relief rather than targeting the pathophysiology of disease. Here, we review proposed mechanisms in the pathogenesis of autoimmune-based KCS: genetic susceptibility and disruptions in antigen recognition, immune response, and immune regulation. By understanding the mechanisms of immune dysfunction through basic science and translational research, potential drug targets can be identified. Finally, we discuss current dry eye therapies as well as promising new treatment options and drug therapy targets
A Review of Quality of Life Measures in Dry Eye Questionnaires
Dry eye disease (DED) is an ocular disease that affects 5% to 17% of the US population. Because of the negative effects of DED on patients’ quality of life (QOL), disease-specific questionnaires that assess QOL in patients with dry eyes are essential in the monitoring and management of this chronic ocular condition. This review provides clinicians and researchers with a summary of the current questionnaires available for assessing QOL in patients with dry eyes
Perceptions of Dry Eye Disease Management in Current Clinical Practice
To assess the perceptions of eye care providers regarding the clinical management of dry eye
Ocular Disease, Knowledge and Technology Applications in Patients With Diabetes
An estimated 25.8 million children and adults in the United States, approximately 8.3% of the population, have diabetes. Diabetes prevalence varies by race and ethnicity. African Americans have the highest prevalence (12.6%), followed closely by Hispanics (11.8%), Asian Americans (8.4%), and Whites (7.1%). The purpose of this article is to discuss the ocular complications of diabetes, the cultural and racial differences in diabetes knowledge, and the role of telemedicine as a means to reach the undeserved who are at risk of complications. Information on the pathophysiology of ocular disease in patients with diabetes and the role of telemedicine in diabetes care was derived from a literature review. National Institutes of Health (NIH) on-line resources were queried to present data on the racial and cultural understandings of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. The microvascular ocular complications of diabetes are discussed for retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma and ocular surface disease. Racial and cultural differences in knowledge of recommended self-care practices are presented. These differences in part, may explain health disparities and the increased risk of diabetes and its complications in rural minority communities. Finally, advances in telemedicine technology are discussed that show improvements in metabolic control and cardiovascular risk in adults with type 2 diabetes. Improving provider and patient understanding of diabetes complications may improve management and self care practices that are important for diabetes control. Telemedicine may improve access to diabetes specialists and may improve self-management education and diabetes control particularly in rural and underserved communities
Instrument Development of the UNC Dry Eye Management Scale
Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular disease that can have adverse effects on quality of life. Our aim was to develop a single-item questionnaire that is reliable, patient-driven, and clinic-friendly to assess DED symptoms and their effect on quality of life in order to help support the management of patients with DED
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