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Advanced methods for evaluating characteristic parameters (τ, α, ϱ) of circadian rhythms

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Summary

The methods proposed consist of an extension of the classical periodogram method for period evaluation, and of a new approach giving better estimates of activity time α. The improvements of the periodogram method aim at eliminating possible misinterpretations by introducing a confidence limit for “true” periods and by an analysis of homogeneity. Further, the extended method enables one to evaluate τ even from records containing gaps, e.g. caused by feeding intervals. The application of the methods is demonstrated using records of the locomotor activity of the scorpionspider Admetus pumilio.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Lehrstuhl für Allgemeine Zoologie Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Postfach 2148, D-4630, Bochum, Germany

    G. J. Dörrscheidt &  L. Beck

Authors
  1. G. J. Dörrscheidt
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  2. L. Beck
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Additional information

Partly supported (L. Beck) by Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). The computer used for all calculations is on loan from the DFG to Prof. Dr. J. Schwartzkopff.

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Dörrscheidt, G.J., Beck, L. Advanced methods for evaluating characteristic parameters (τ, α, ϱ) of circadian rhythms. J. Math. Biology 2, 107–121 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00275923

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00275923

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