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In our feature story, we uncover how lab mice, often seen merely as subjects in experiments, are showcasing behaviors that suggest they might be testing us instead. Discover how these small creatures are possibly manipulating experimental outcomes to explore their environments, challenging our understanding of animal intelligence in the article below!

Science

Lab Mice Are Doing Their Own Experiments?

It has long been established that mice can be trained to perform tasks in exchange for a reward, such as navigating mazes or pressing buttons for a bit of food or water. However, instances where mice fail to complete these tasks are typically dismissed by researchers as mere errors due to lack of attention or interest.

A recent study published on April 26 in the journal Current Biology, however, proposes a more intriguing explanation: mice may actually understand the rules of the tasks and choose to deviate from expected behaviors, possibly as a way to explore and learn more about their environment.

This suggests that the decision-making process in mice during lab tests involves more than just the pursuit of rewards; they might also be engaging in a form of continuous exploration and experimentation with the rules set by their environment.

The study enhances our comprehension of cognitive processes in rodents, suggesting that mice and other animals might possess a deeper awareness and cognitive abilities than previously thought. This research could also provide insights into the neurological foundations of human behavior. “These mice have a richer internal life than we probably give them credit for,” remarks Kishore Kuchibhotla, the senior study author and an assistant professor of neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University. “They are not just stimulus response machines. They may have things like strategies,”

The studies findings are very intriguing and certainly warrant more research. Being only a single study, the conclusions come with limitations. According to Dr. Brian Sweis PhD, a neuroscientist and psychiatrist at Mount Sinai who specializes in animal behavior research who was not involved in this particular study, there could be alternative factors such as physical fatigue influencing the mice's actions. "While it doesn’t discount the findings," Sweis notes, "physical factors could be influencing their behavior. We must consider the brain in the context of the whole body."

If you want more details about the fascinating study, check them out here.

Entertainment

Rolling Stones— Still Rolling at 60!

In Houston, the Rolling Stones started their tour at NRG Stadium. They played a mix of old and new songs, including tracks from their recent album "Hackney Diamonds." Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood, along with their band, rocked the stage with their usual energy despite being around for a long time.

Jagger, wearing a flashy jacket, led the performance with his usual charm, making up for any small issues with his lively presence and strong singing. Alongside their famous songs, they also played some newer ones, giving fans a taste of their ongoing journey as a band.

Even though their original drummer Charlie Watts wasn't there, the band still paid tribute to their history while adding some new elements. Chanel Haynes joined them for a few songs, adding her own flair and chemistry with Jagger.

The show kicked off with Gary Clark Jr., who impressed the crowd with his blues-rock style and impressive talent. Despite the big names following him, Clark Jr. held his own and left a lasting impression on the audience.

World News

3,400-Year-old Head of King Ramses II Statue Returned to Egypt

A statue piece belonging to Pharaoh Ramses II has been recovered through a collaborative effort and returned to Egypt. Crafted over 3,400 years ago, this piece was taken from the Temple of Ramses in Abydos, Egypt, more than 30 years ago. Shaaban Abdel Gawad, who leads Egypt’s antiquities repatriation agency, stated that the piece was likely stolen in the late 1980s or early 1990s.

Currently undergoing restoration, the fragment is now in the possession of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Cairo. Its retrieval involved vigilant monitoring of the antiquities and art markets in Europe, where it surfaced for auction in London a decade ago before being relocated to Switzerland.

The recovered piece is part of a series depicting King Ramses II seated alongside Egyptian deities, as described by Gawad. Collaborating with Swiss authorities, Gawad and his team established rightful ownership, leading to the artifact's seizure and eventual transfer to Cairo.

Egypt has a long history of reclaiming artifacts from looters and illicit traders. Despite the challenges, their expertise in this field has grown significantly over time.

Ramses II, also known as the 'Ozymandius' referenced in Percy Shelley's poem, ruled for an exceptional 66 years, outliving most of his children and grandchildren. During his reign, he oversaw the construction of numerous temples, cities, and statues throughout his expansive empire, stretching from Nubia in the south to Canaan and Phoenicia in the north.

Sports

Mercedes to Offer Verstappen Record F1 Contract

Reports indicate that Max Verstappen may receive a lucrative offer to depart from Red Bull. Mercedes appears keen on acquiring the Dutch driver, with Toto Wolff expressing interest in recent weeks. If accurate, Mercedes could propose a contract worth €150 million annually, bonuses included, as reported by OE24 and F1 Insider.

Discussions may commence as early as the Miami Grand Prix. Amid Red Bull's recent turbulence, fueled by allegations against team principal Christian Horner, internal discord seems to persist. Speculation suggests that Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey is contemplating leaving the team.

Although Verstappen is under contract until 2028, rumors suggest a potential exit clause linked to the departure of his advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko. This situation could lead to a package deal if Mercedes seeks to secure Verstappen's services early.

The evolving scenario has created uncertainty within Verstappen's circle, exacerbated by doubts about Red Bull's future dominance in F1 beyond 2026. Mercedes aims to exploit these insecurities.

Will Verstappen make the move to Mercedes next year?

Mind Stretchers

⁉️ 

What has a bottom at the top?

Answers to yesterday’s Mind Stretchers:
“2 C RED” (To see red)

That one was a tricky one!

The first to send us the correct answer for today’s mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected] or reply to the email.

If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured.