Use of chi square periodogram in the analysis of estrous rhythmicity.

The usefulness of the chi square periodogram procedure for the analysis of estrous rhythmicity was investigated. Sokolove-Bushell's Q statistic was found to have a chi square distribution at the small degrees of freedom involved in estrous rhythmicity in rodents (i.e., rhythmicity with periods of 2-7 days). Consequently, the significance of the peaks in the periodogram can be effectively evaluated. The effects of multiple-period rhythmicity and of random noise added to periodical data were also investigated. Overall, the analysis of simulated as well as empirical data indicated that the chi square periodogram is an excellent tool for the evaluation of estrous rhythmicity.