in table 15a the neurological score was measured in a manner slightly different from that given in example 3 this method consists of the sum total of a series of ratings assigned to the performance of specific locomotor activities in a given rat the scale runs from 0 fully normal rats to 13 fully incapacitated rats most parameters are rated as either 0 normal or 1 incapacitated others are graded the following tests were used in the present study motor reflex rats were lifted by the tail about 15 cm above the floor normal rats assume a posture in which they extend both forelimbs towards the floor and spread that hind limbs to the sides in a trapeze like manner mcao when severe causes consistent flexion of the contralateral limb motor ability this is seen as the ability to grasp a rod 1 cm in diameter by the contralateral limb for 5 15 sec when the rat is left hanging on the rod through the arm pit motor coordination normal rats are able to walk up and down a beam 5 cm wide placed at a moderate slant failure to walk the beam in either direction reveals some motor incoordination lack of balance and limb weakness gait ability to restore normal position to either hand contralateral or fore contralateral limb when intentionally displaced while on a narrow beam balance ability to grasp and balance on a narrow beam 2 cm wide locomotor activity total movements over a period of 15 min in an automated activity cage ratings assigned to each of.