Humans

Archaeology

Our species may have reached Europe while Neandertals were there

Archaeological finds from an ancient French rock-shelter show periodic settlements by both populations, just not at the same time.

Brain

Addiction can develop when reward-seeking changes a teen’s brain

Over time, the pleasure disappears and craving grows. That craving causes stress that can drive people to use drugs or pursue unhealthy behaviors again and again.

Brain

Americans tend to see imaginary faces as male, not female

When people see imaginary faces in everyday objects, those faces are more likely to be perceived as male than female.

Health & Medicine

Here’s how a new sleeping bag could protect astronauts’ eyesight

A new sleeping bag could avoid vision problems on long space flights due to microgravity. It counters a fluid buildup behind astronauts’ eyes.

Science & Society

New training builds ‘mental’ muscles in athletes

The training builds focus and resiliency while limiting the self-doubt that can cripple competitors’ ability to perform at their peak.

Animals

Mysterious kunga is the oldest known human-bred hybrid animal

People bred these animals — part donkey, part wild ass — some 4,500 years ago, probably for use in fighting wars.

Brain

Nodding off may turn your creativity on

In an experiment, people who fell into a shallow sleep were more likely than non-sleepers or deep sleepers to discover a sly math trick.

Health & Medicine

Explainer: How loud is too loud?

Loud sounds, be it music or noise, might seem like no big deal at the time. But permanent damage can occur without noticeable warning signs.

Psychology

We all imagine being friends with celebrities. Is that a bad thing?

One-sided relationships with celebrities and fictional characters are normal. They also can boost self-esteem and empathy.

Psychology

To excel at basketball, it’s mind over matter

Get your head in the game. Top basketball coaches value psychological traits more than physical ones when recruiting players, says a new study.

Animals

Let’s learn about snot

For humans, snot plays a key role in fighting off diseases. Other animals have found different uses for the slimy stuff.

Humans

Snap! High-speed video captures the physics of snapping fingers

Inspired by the infamous snap of the Avengers rival Thanos, scientists set out to investigate the physics behind finger-snapping.