Prior test experience produces changes of t-patterns spatial distribution in the elevated plus maze test
- Authors: Casarrubea, M; Faulisi, F; Santangelo, A; Roy, V; Arabo, A; Magnusson, MS; Sorbera, F; Crescimanno, G
- Publication year: 2014
- Type: eedings
- OA Link: http://hdl.handle.net/10447/96004
Abstract
Aim of present research was to investigate in male Wistar rats whether a prior elevated plus maze experience modifies the temporal structure of the behavioral response following a retest applied after 24h. Video files were coded by means of a software coder and event log files generated for each subject were analyzed by means of a specific software for temporal pattern analysis (Theme). Present research shows a clear reduction of the number of t-patterns from trial one to trial two. This reduction is provoked by the disappearance of t-patterns consisting of behavioral elements occurring in the unprotected zones of the maze. The results suggest that the previous experience in the maze causes learning-dependent behavioral changes inducing a more clear-cut response to environmental anxiogenic conditions.