Summary
A new apparatus to measure motor activity was investigated. It is based on the principle of a tuned oscillator coil system, which will be off-tuned when any new mass is introduced into its electromagnetic field. This results in a “count”, that is recorded by a timer controlled printer.
The sensitivity and resolving power of the instrument has been studied in relation to velocity and frequency of animal movements. The applicability for evaluation of central stimulants and tranquillizers was investigated in a few preliminary experiments. The apparatus appears to be superior to previous instruments in certain respects.
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References
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Siegel, P. S.: A simple electronic device for the measurement of the gross bodily activity of small animals. J. Psychol. 21, 227–236 (1946).
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Svensson, T.H., Thieme, G. An investigation of a new instrument to measure motor activity of small animals. Psychopharmacologia 14, 157–163 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00403689
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00403689