A new study might explain why dying patients' lives flash before their eyes.

A woman who allegedly was the head of the Catholic Church became one of the most controversial Middle Ages tales.

The centuries-old abacus, once a common tool in many countries, has now been abandoned around the world. But in Japan, thousands of students are still taught proficiency on the abacus. Advocates argue that sliding the beads up and down with your fingers and then thinking with your brain creates a mind-body connection that helps with calculation skills and cognitive memory. Video by Terushi Sho Executive Producer: Camelia Sadeghzadeh #bbcreel #bbc #bbcnews

Forests of Judean date palm trees once covered ancient Israel, from Lake Galilee to the Dead Sea. The fruit of the tree symbolised life and prosperity and was praised in ancient literature for its unique medicinal properties. But the dates of Judea were made extinct by the Middle Ages. Now a team of scientists has succeeded in resurrecting the ancient tree. Video by Ori Szternfeld Executive Producer: Camelia Sadeghzadeh #bbcreel #bbc #bbcnews

Former whistleblower James Wasserstrom tells the story of his mission to Kosovo.

In most cultures, small talk acts as a social lubricant. But in Sweden, people tend to avoid idle chit-chat. Some experts believe the Swedes are missing out on a vital communication tool, while others say it's just a part of Swedish life. Video by Björn Nilsson Executive Producer: Camelia Sadeghzadeh #bbcreel #bbc #bbcnews