Because mice are so closely related to humans—relative to other common lab animals—they are particularly suited for investigations of human genetics. Researchers today rely heavily on "knockout mice," mice that have been bred with one or more genes intentionally switched off. Millions of these mice are used each year in studies of aging, cancer, obesity, and other conditions. So prized are they that some strains of knockout mice have even been patented. When was the first knockout mouse created?
Back in the day
After five weeks of speculation and frenzied betting, Phil Mitchell's would-be assassin was finally revealed in a much-hyped episode of EastEnders, one of the longest running and most popular soap operas in the UK. Nearly 20 million people tuned in to watch the culmination of the "Who shot Phil?" storyline, causing the UK's third-largest power surge on record until that time. What major sporting event was postponed to accommodate the special episode's extended running time?
Born on a day like today
A highly respected German composer and violinist in the 19th century, Spohr has been largely neglected since then. After touring Europe, he became kapellmeister—leader of the orchestra—in Kassel, Germany, in 1822 and remained there for the rest of his life, eventually directing all of the city's music. Highly prolific, he wrote 15 violin concertos, nine symphonies, and many operas. Sometimes considered "forgotten," Spohr is said to have been as famous as which of his contemporaries?