An elegant trajectory
11pm, 17 September 2010
“The Emergence of an Optimal Motor Strategy and Functional Understanding,” PLoS One, 2008:
We demonstrated for the first time that rodents can be trained to use tools. Through a step-by-step training procedure, we trained degus (Octodon degus) to use a rake-like tool with their forelimbs to retrieve otherwise out-of-reach rewards. Eventually, they mastered effective use of the tool, moving it in an elegant trajectory.
Should we ever need an argument for publishing video as part of research papers, I think we found it.