The effect of whole-body X radiation upon activity drum, straightaway, and maze performances of white rats.

Abstract

The results of 3 experiments utilizing maze learning are summarized as follows: "1. Lethal doses of radiation have a more pronounced effect upon the speed than the accuracy of response during the remaining life of the rat. 2. The effect of sublethal doses is most apparent during the period of acute radiation sickness . . ‥ 3. The delayed effect of heavy but sublethal radiation upon the accuracy of retention and relearning of the same or other maze patterns six months later may be more significant than the immediate effect and may still exist after all speed decrements have cleared up. 4. The demonstration of significant effects will depend on the nature of the methods and complexity of the measuring devices used . . ‥ 5. A well-learned elevated T-maze habit may continue to function satisfactorily after exposures to radiation levels which apparently diminish the rat's ability to learn new complex patterns on a vertical maze." (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)