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Numerous behavioural paradigms using serveral conflict procedures, social interaction or exploration of novel environments have been proposed as animal models of anxiety. B. Costall et al have described (Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 32(3): 777-785, 1989) a new model based on the adversive properties of the open field and in which anxiolytic drug-induced ease of exploratory activity is compared between an illuminated compartment and a dark one.

This model permits simple and quick evaluation of the anxious behaviour and its modification by pharmacological agents. Bioseb has developed a complete system for the carrying out of this experiment, including both boxes for the experimental subject and the appropriate control instrumentation.

Test boxes:
The test boxes, entirely constructed of perspex, consist of two compartments with walls 240 mm high. The first of these, coloured matt black, measures 160x250 mm for the mouse version and 200x310 mm for the rat version; the other one, matt white, measures 250x250 mm for mice and 310x310 mm for rats (interior dimensions). Both compartments are separated by a wall (470 mm high for mice, 560 mm for rats, to act as light separator) with a 70x70 mm opening in its base (100x100 mm for rats). The box does not have a top cover.
Each compartment has its own removable floor, constructed with perspex of the same colour of the retrospective walls and with 9 sectors delimited by lines.
Each compartment is independently illuminated: the white one with a 100 W bulb (white) and the black one with a 40 W bulb (red). Both bulbs are 370 mm from the floor of the box.

Models LE-816 and LE-818 have a load cell in each compartment to detect the position of the experimental subject. All models are controlled by the PPCWIN Software

PPCWIN Software:
The PPCWIN Software can control from one up to eight cages. It is not necessary the use of any device as interface, since the link is made by serial way and RS232 port (USB)
The Software has the following characteristics:
• Windows Platform: Millenium-NT-2000 and XP
• Trial length and Start/Stop are defined separately for each Cage
• Records total time spent in each compartment, for trial
• Records number of transitions between the two areas
• Records latency time before first transition
• Records number of line crossing in the two compartments (activity)
• Once a trial is over, ASCII files containing all information are generated

Up to 8 systems may be controlled simultaneoulsy by the PPCWIN Software

Once a trial is over, ASCII files containing all information are generated.