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PubMed1995

A computerized system for the continuous recording and analysis of feeding, drinking, diuresis, and locomotor activity.

A system has been designed to study the intake of liquids and solid foods in rats that allows for the analysis of feeding and drinking episodes over time. In addition, it monitors locomotor activity and diuresis. This system is particularly useful for the study of the differential effects of drugs on various parameters of feeding and drinking. Because it allows for the monitoring of all behaviors for periods of 24 consecutive hours without disturbing the animals, it can be applied to the study of light/dark cycles of ingestive behavior. The apparatus consists of rat cages (equipped with photocells, bottles, electronic balances, and a funnel to collect urine), computer interfaces, an AT-compatible microcomputer for data collection, and a VAX system for analysis.

Animals↗

PubMed1989

A microcomputer controlled data acquisition system for research on feeding and drinking behavior in rats.

This paper describes an inexpensive, reliable computer controlled data collection system designed for the continuous monitoring of feeding and drinking behavior in rats. This system will be useful in areas of behavioral pharmacology research requiring a detailed analysis of food and fluid intake. The configuration described herein was developed for research on the "microstructure" of alcohol drinking behavior. Variables examined include: alcohol bout size, frequency and duration, interbout intervals as well as the temporal pattern of intake and its relationship to food and water consumption. Detailed analysis of behavior using this technique will enhance our ability to interpret the nature of changes in alcohol oriented behavior produced by pharmacological manipulations, aid in the development of specific hypotheses related to the regulation of alcohol drinking behavior and provide a means of testing these hypotheses.

Animals↗