Conclusions
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1.
The main portion (60%) of the variance of the behavior of Wistar rats in the open field test can be due to the effect of only three principal factors (components).
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2.
An analysis of the behavioral structure of these components showed that they can be designated as “exploration” (first component), “fear” (second), and “shifted activity” (third).
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3.
The overall motor activity in the open field test has a two-factor basis, and an investigation of the temporal dynamics of the given index is required for its factorial separation.
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4.
Classification of animals according to the principle of the relationship of the principal components (motivations) in determination of their behavior can be carried out on the basis of factor analysis.
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Translated from Zhurnal Vysshei Nervnoi Deyatel'nosti imeni I. P. Pavlova, Vol. 38, No. 5, pp. 855–863, September–October, 1988.
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Markel', A.L., Galaktionov, Y.K. & Efimov, V.M. Factor analysis of rat behavior in an open field test. Neurosci Behav Physiol 19, 279–286 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01236015
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01236015