2020 Volume 60 Issue 2 Pages 297-305
The development of analytical methods in recent years has made it possible to conduct biochemical analysis of trace substances in samples collected outdoors. One such method involves a hormone, which is a physiologically active substance with ultra-trace elements. Therefore, it has become possible to extract hormones from samples containing various contaminants, including excreta, and monitor trace concentrations. The primary analytical method applied in recent years is the enzyme immunoassay; however, other methods such as radioimmunoassay, liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, and immunochromatography are also used. The author assessed the physiological state of animals using another method: near infrared spectroscopy. This paper introduces the development of the estrus diagnosis method using near-infrared spectrum analysis of urine and the potential for fecal near-infrared spectrum analysis. In the final section, the paper introduces an immunochromatography method applicable at room temperature (e.g. 25°C) and a simplified stress checker with feces by using a smartphone app.
