ZH-CSC Shuttle Experiment Video Analysis System

Product Introduction

The ZH-CSC Shuttle Experiment Video Analysis System is a laboratory instrument designed for quantitative analysis of animal learning, memory, conditioned reflexes, and avoidance behavior. Based on the shuttle box paradigm, the system evaluates how experimental animals learn to move between safe zones in response to conditioned auditory stimuli and electrical stimulation.

The system integrates a shuttle box, programmable sound stimulation, adjustable constant-current and constant-voltage electrical stimulation, and computer-based experimental control. Its cyclically shifted pulse stimulation method helps maintain effective grid stimulation as animals change position.

The ZH-CSC records key behavioral indicators, including avoidance latency, escape responses, and error counts, providing quantitative data for neuroscience, neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and cognitive function research.

Performance Features

1. Embedded Control System: Uses an embedded microcontroller as the main hardware control core for reliable experimental operation.

2. Programmable Stimulation: Software allows direct adjustment of stimulus voltage, current, and sound delay.

3.Constant-Current and Constant-Voltage Output: Supports controlled electrical stimulation for standardized behavioral experiments.

4. Cyclic Grid Stimulation: Applies cyclically shifted pulse stimulation across electrodes to reduce the risk of ineffective stimulation when animals remain on the same grid electrode.

5. Adjustable Stimulus Parameters: Provides adjustable square-wave peak voltage and current settings for different experimental requirements.

6. USB Connectivity: Uses USB interfaces for system signal communication and computer-based control.

7. Multi-Size Animal Compatibility: The stimulation system is designed to accommodate animals of different sizes.

8.  Automated Behavioral Recording: Collects behavioral response parameters for quantitative learning and memory assessment.

9.  Multiple Analysis Indicators: Measures response latency, active avoidance, passive escape, and error counts.

Working Principle

The ZH-CSC uses a two-compartment shuttle box with a stainless-steel grid floor. During an experiment, an auditory conditioned stimulus is presented before electrical stimulation is delivered according to the programmed protocol.

Animals can respond by moving into the opposite safe compartment. Responses occurring during the conditioned-stimulus interval before electrical stimulation are classified as active avoidance. Responses occurring after electrical stimulation begins are generally classified as escape responses. Failure to make the required response is recorded according to the configured experimental scoring rules.

Through repeated training, animals may learn to move to the safe compartment in response to the auditory cue alone. The computer-based system records response timing and behavioral outcomes, allowing researchers to evaluate learning acquisition, memory performance, and avoidance behavior.

Shorter active avoidance latency can indicate faster learned responses under comparable experimental conditions, although interpretation should account for locomotor activity, sensory function, stress, and other potential confounding factors.

Technical Parameters

Analysis Indicators

Application Scenarios

• Learning and Memory Research: Evaluating acquisition and retention of conditioned avoidance responses.

• Cognitive Neuroscience: Investigating neural mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and behavioral adaptation.

•Neurophysiology: Studying physiological processes associated with conditioned reflexes and avoidance learning.

• Neuropharmacology: Assessing the effects of experimental compounds on learning and memory performance.

• Cognitive Impairment Research: Supporting experimental studies of cognitive decline and impaired learning.

•  Behavioral Neuroscience: Quantifying rodent responses to auditory cues and aversive stimuli.

•   Preliminary Behavioral Screening: Providing complementary measurements for broader learning, memory, and cognitive function studies.

ZH-CSC vs. Traditional Shuttle Box Systems

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the ZH-CSC Shuttle Experiment Video Analysis System used for?

It is used to study animal learning, memory, conditioned reflexes, active avoidance, and escape behavior, primarily in laboratory behavioral neuroscience.

2. How does the shuttle box experiment work?

An auditory cue is presented before an aversive electrical stimulus. Animals learn to move into the opposite compartment during the cue interval to avoid the stimulus.

3. What is the difference between active avoidance and passive escape?

Active avoidance occurs when an animal responds to the conditioned cue before electrical stimulation begins. Escape occurs when the animal responds after the aversive stimulus has started.

4. What electrical stimulation parameters can be adjusted?

The system provides a current adjustment range of 0.04–3.5 mA and a square-wave peak voltage range of 30–120 V, with software-configurable settings.

5. Can the auditory stimulus timing be programmed?

Yes. The specified sound stimulus delay can be adjusted from 0 to 255 seconds.

6. What is the advantage of cyclically shifted grid stimulation?

It helps reduce the possibility that an animal will avoid effective stimulation simply by standing on the same grid electrode, supporting more consistent stimulus delivery.

7. What behavioral indicators can the system analyze?

The listed indicators include first and total correct latency, active avoidance counts, first and total error latency, passive escape responses, and error counts.

8. Which animals can be used with the ZH-CSC?

The stimulation system is designed for animals of different sizes. Actual species and body-size compatibility should be confirmed against the manufacturer's recommended experimental configurations.

9. How is the system connected to a computer?

The system uses USB interfaces for communication and supports software-based stimulation control and behavioral data recording.