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Infrared (IR) absorption patterns of equine synovial fluid (SF) were studied. The objectives were to: (1) develop and optimize laboratory protocols suitable for mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopic analysis of equine SF, (2) identify significant differences among MIR spectra of SF from anatomically different types of equine joints, and (3) determine the feasibility of using MIR spectroscopy and classification algorithms for the differentiation of SF samples from diseased and control joints.

This study investigated the effectiveness of a new glucosamine hydrochloride formulation in osteoarthritic dogs. The study was divided into two phases. The first phase of the study was conducted as a randomized, double blind placebo controlled clinical trial for a 6 month period. Thirty dogs, who exhibited clinical lameness due to osteoarthritis in one limb, were randomly allocated into 3 groups: the new formulation of glucosamine (ONC114), glucosamine alone and placebo control groups. Measurements of locomotive performance included objective force plate gait analysis, subjective orthopedic examination, radiographic examination and degree of lameness assessed by owners. These evaluations as well as hematological and biochemical evaluations were obtained during 4 evaluation times: pretreatment, the 6th week, the 3rd month and the 6th month. After 6 months, the placebo control group was eliminated. During the second phase of the study the dogs in the ONC114 and the glucosamine groups were continued on their treatment protocol. Dogs in the placebo control group were randomly allocated into the crossover ONC114 and glucosamine treatment groups. The second phase of the study continued for additional 6 months with evaluation times at the 9th month and at 1 year. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).