Basic science of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent, disabling disorder of the joints that affects a large population worldwide and for which there is no definitive cure. This review provides critical insights into the basic knowledge on OA that may lead to innovative end efficient new therapeutic regimens. While degradation of the articular cartilage is the hallmark of OA, with altered interactions between chondrocytes and compounds of the extracellular matrix, the subchondral bone has been also described as a key component of the disease, involving specific pathomechanisms controlling its initiation and progression. The identification of such events (and thus of possible targets for therapy) has been made possible by the availability of a number of animal models that aim at reproducing the human pathology, in particular large models of high tibial osteotomy (HTO). From a therapeutic point of view, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a promising option for the treatment of OA and may be used concomitantly with functional substitutes integrating scaffolds and drugs/growth factors in tissue engineering setups. Altogether, these advances in the fundamental and experimental knowledge on OA may allow for the generation of improved, adapted therapeutic regimens to treat human OA.(undefined

"Ur skin is the thing that everyone sees and you cant change it!": Exploring the appearance-related concerns of young people with psoriasis

Purpose: The failure of research to capture the qualitative experiences of young people who have chronic skin conditions means that their psychosocial needs are poorly understood. Using a grounded theory approach, this study facilitated group discussions between adolescents with psoriasis in order to rapidly identify themes about their support needs. Methods: Three online focus groups were hosted in a real time forum. In total, 8 young people aged 11-18 years were recruited through the websites of psoriasis support organizations. Focus groups lasted an average of 1 hour and data was analysed using grounded theory techniques. Results: Appearance-related concerns are central to the experiences of young people with psoriasis. Participants constructed their individual struggle (It and Me) in physical, emotional, motivational and intellectual terms. A strong sense of Us developed as participants recognized the value of meeting peers with psoriasis. This enabled groups to blame Them for their negative social experiences. Discussion: The findings are discussed in the context of literature around adolescence and appearance. It is suggested that the experience of negative social encounters in adolescence may have long-term implications for appearance anxiety specifically and self-esteem generally. The potential of peer support to improve these outcomes is considered. © 2007 Informa UK Ltd