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Immediate Detection of X-rays by the Rat

Journal Article · · Nature (London)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1038/1961014a0· OSTI ID:4738787

An investigation was made of the ability of rats to perceive radiation and an attempt was made to determine the physiological receptor mechanism involved. X rays were used as a warning stimulus to signal the occurrence of a subsequent electric shock to the paws of normal and blind mice while pressing a lever to obtain food. X radiation caused an immediate arrest in the animals lever pressing behavior. Results indicate that doses as low as 0.05 r/sec were detected by all animals. It was concluded that phosphenes or other visual effects do not account for the response to x radiation.

Research Organization:
Long Beach Veterans Administration Hospital, Calif.
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
NSA Number:
NSA-17-005857
OSTI ID:
4738787
Journal Information:
Nature (London), Journal Name: Nature (London) Journal Issue: 4858 Vol. 196; ISSN 0028-0836
Publisher:
Nature Publishing Group
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English

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