A simple system is described to analyze the possibility that increased exploratory behavior is
an index for the anxiolytic effects of benzodiazepines in laboratory rodents. Mice were
allowed free run in a two-chambered arena, where two-thirds of the area was illuminated
and one-third was darkened. The two chambers were separated by a black partition
equipped with photocells across the opening, and the entire cage rested on an Animex
activity monitor. Transitions across the partition between the light and dark chambers, and …