A new study on ancient human remains finds evidence for the habitual use of betel nuts, dating back to the Ice Age. The finding offers some of the oldest archaeological evidence of psychoactive drug use, and potential insights into how use of betel nuts, now popular for their stimulant effects, evolved.

Paleontologists have discovered the tracks of a giant — the fossilized footprints of T. rex. Plus, solar "superflares" and the brain benefits of reading in this week's Short Wave science news roundup.

The White House says it is withdrawing its nomination of Lance Schroyer, a former Oklahoma state trooper, to lead ICE, ensuring that an agency at the forefront of President Trump's domestic agenda will remain without a Senate-confirmed leader for at least a while longer.

Everyone is talking about the spectre of AI catastrophe. Can the U.S. and China agree on guardrails to blunt the biggest risks when their leaders meet next week?

NPR's Mary Louise Kelly speaks with Ian Bremmer, president and founder of the Eurasia Group, about the latest developments between Canada, the European Union and the U.S.