Abstract
Results and Conclusions
1. The Zimmermann test showed that there was no significant difference in the amount of 17-ketosteroids before and after incubation periods up to 2 weeks. Since the material tested in column II has been extracted thoroughly with 2N NaOH, little estrogenic substance can be present. Hence the figures obtained are believed to indicate androgens.
2. It is therefore believed that the bacterial flora of the ruminant stomach is not concerned with the increased androgenic content of the feces of a pregnant cow. If any changes are obtained, it appears that there is a loss of androgens during incubation, or a loss by the second treatment.
3. The bile from pregnant cows showed a demonstrable amount of an androgenic substance.
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