Cognitive psychology

Neuroscience

Pure mathematics

Behavioral modeling

Field (mathematics)

Computer science

Gait

Behavioral analysis

Signature (topology)

Psychology

Mathematics

Artificial intelligence

Geometry

Behavioral pattern

Medicine

Software engineering

Physical medicine and rehabilitation

Local field potential

Neuropsychopharmacology

Behavioral phenotyping devices have been successfully used to build ethograms, but many aspects of behavior remain out of reach of available phenotyping systems. We now report on a novel device, which consists in an open-field platform resting on highly sensitive piezoelectric (electromechanical) pressure-sensors, with which we could detect the slightest movements (up to individual heart beats during rest) from freely moving rats and mice. The combination with video recordings and signal analysis based on time-frequency decomposition, clustering, and machine learning algorithms provided non-invasive access to previously overlooked behavioral components. The detection of shaking/shivering provided an original readout of fear, distinct from but complementary to behavioral freezing. Analyzing the dynamics of momentum in locomotion and grooming allowed to identify the signature of gait and neurodevelopmental pathological phenotypes. We believe that this device represents a significant progress and offers new opportunities for the awaited advance of behavioral phenotyping.

Detecting fine and elaborate movements with piezo sensors provides non-invasive access to overlooked behavioral components